The national anthem of Turkey is called: « İstiklâl Marşı ».
Continent: Europe
Bordering Countries:
– 🇦🇲 Armenia
– 🇧🇬 Bulgaria
– 🇬🇪 Georgia
– 🇬🇷 Greece
– 🇮🇷 Iran (Islamic Republic of)
– 🇸🇾 Syrian Arab Republic
History of « İstiklâl Marşı »
« İstiklâl Marşı » (The Independence March) is the national anthem of Turkey. The anthem reflects the country’s struggle for independence, its cultural heritage, and the enduring spirit of its people.
Key Dates and People
- 1921: The lyrics of « İstiklâl Marşı » were written by Mehmet Âkif Ersoy, a Turkish poet, writer, and politician. The poem was composed during the Turkish War of Independence.
- 1921: The music for the anthem was composed by Osman Zeki Üngör, a Turkish composer and conductor. The anthem was officially adopted by the Grand National Assembly of Turkey on March 12, 1921.
- 1930: The current musical arrangement, which is widely recognized today, was made by Edgar Manas and Zeki Üngör.
Anecdotes
- War of Independence: The anthem was written during a critical period in Turkish history, as the country fought for its independence from occupying forces following World War I. The lyrics reflect the resilience and determination of the Turkish people.
- National Competition: A national competition was held to select the lyrics for the anthem. Mehmet Âkif Ersoy’s poem was chosen from among 724 submissions, reflecting its powerful message and emotional resonance.
- Cultural Significance: « İstiklâl Marşı » is performed at national celebrations, official ceremonies, and sporting events, reinforcing its role in uniting the Turkish people and celebrating their heritage. The anthem’s stirring lyrics and melody inspire a sense of unity and pride among Turks.
Lyrics Excerpt
In Turkish
Korkma, sönmez bu şafaklarda yüzen al sancak;
Sönmeden yurdumun üstünde tüten en son ocak.
O benim milletimin yıldızıdır, parlayacak;
O benimdir, o benim milletimindir ancak.
Çatma, kurban olayım çehreni ey nazlı hilâl!
Kahraman ırkıma bir gül… ne bu şiddet bu celâl?
Sana olmaz dökülen kanlarımız sonra helâl;
Hakkıdır, Hakk’a tapan, milletimin istiklâl.In English (translation)
Fear not! For the crimson flag that proudly waves in these dawns, shall never fade,
Before the last fiery hearth that is ablaze within my nation is extinguished.
For That is the star of my nation, and it will forever shine;
It is mine; it belongs solely to my nation.
Frown not, I beseech you, oh thou coy crescent!
Smile upon my heroic race! Why the anger, why the rage?
Our blood which we shed for you shall not be worthy otherwise;
For freedom is the absolute right of my God-worshipping nation.Sources: