A National Secret

I'm taking a break from the tedious work of tiling a closet. Technically, this kind of tiling—peel and stick—is easy. However...the closet is not a perfect square or rectangle. Plus, the threshold from the living room threw off my line of attack, forcing an additional set of cut tiles to fit neatly along the wall. Then there was the chore of cutting pieces to fit around a hot water tank.

All that in a tight, cramped space. It made me feel better about the good money I paid professionals to tile my kitchen and bathroom. Well worth it!

Anyway, on to my topic tonight.

Andrew Bey reports...

Mustafa Kemal said in 1927 that it was immediately clear to him that the monarchy would be the relentless enemy of the national will. But to spell out the...inevitability of a republic...would frighten people who found the prospect contrary to their traditions, their mental capacity and their mentality. In order to preserve unity in the struggle for independence, Mustafa Kemal was obliged to keep to himself as 'a national secret the great capacity for development which I discerned in the nation's conscience and future.'

The philosopher-king idea and its problems come to mind. The report continues...

In a conversation which occupied the night of 7/8 July (1919), Mustafa Kema is said to have allowed Mazah Müfit to note down five long-term objectives:

• the proclamation of a republic
• 'appropriate treament' of the dynasty
• abolition of Islamic dress for women
• and a ban on wearing of the fez by men,
• and the introduction of the Latin alphabet

Personally, I appreciate the last item. At the same time, I look forward to learning about what must have been a tumultuous period while the nation's language was changed!