A Century Conquering the World’s Toughest Terrain
Atlas of Lost Traces: A Reflection on the Republic’s Journey
HASAN MERT KAYA/ ATLAS OF LOST TRACES – Its foundations were laid with the support of the people they led and who rekindled the fire of freedom that had ashes within them. Those who founded the Republic created a bright nation from a community that had lost its position on the stage of history for the last three centuries, missed the spirit of the times and lost its self-confidence.
The Republic gave life to the parched-skinned children of Anatolia, became a support and refreshed and rejuvenated these lands with the new and solid principles it brought. With his goals, free and independent character, he gave us the good news of a new, hopeful life in ideas and ideals.
It was never easy, and a heavy price was paid for it. The educated and young generations of the country put their lives on the line for these ideals. The Republic, which made us valuable and honorable as citizens, took root with the sacrifices of those generations and made Anatolia our home again. In this respect, the Republic is a movement of virtue that offers equal opportunities to the children of the country and makes the land a homeland.
One of the two medals that Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic, carried with honor throughout his life was the Medal of Independence, and the other was the Medal of Merit from the Ottoman period. In my opinion, the essence of the Republic is hidden in the expression of these two valuable medals: It is hidden in being fully independent, free and equipped and competent to keep up with the current situation in every field, that is, in raising meritorious generations. The Republic achieved this and reached its centenary in such a difficult geography. He rose on the shoulders of millions who are devoted to reason, science, equality, dedication, and love for this land.
The cadres who founded the Republic literally pulled these lands out of a huge ring of fire. Today, the Republic is building stronger bridges between the values of the world of culture and civilization to which we belong, independence, and the future.
It is our duty to always be aware of this during the 100-year watch of our Republic, which is the guarantee of all the values we have. We will work hard together to protect the Republic, which is the precious legacy of Gazi Pasha and his comrades-in-arms, for many more centuries.
As we celebrate the Republic’s centenary, it is important to reflect on the journey it has taken. The Republic’s founders faced immense challenges in resurrecting a nation that had lost its place in history. They managed to breathe new life into the Anatolian people, instilling them with confidence and hope for a brighter future.
The Republic’s vision of independence and equality has been achieved through the sacrifices of generations who put their lives on the line. It is a movement that offers equal opportunities and a sense of belonging to all citizens.
The two medals carried by Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk symbolize the essence of the Republic. Independence and merit are the pillars on which the Republic stands. Despite the difficult geography, the Republic has thrived, thanks to the millions who have embraced reason, science, equality, and dedication to their homeland.
Today, the Republic continues to bridge the gap between cultural values, independence, and the future. It is our responsibility to cherish and protect the Republic, a precious legacy passed down by Gazi Pasha and his fellow soldiers, for future generations.
As we journey through the Republic’s 100-year watch, let us remain mindful of the values it represents. Together, we can work towards preserving and strengthening the Republic for centuries to come.
