Deaths on April 10

Fevzi Çakmak, Turkish field marshal and politician, 2nd Prime Minister of Turkey (b. 1876)

Mustafa Fevzi Çakmak (12 January 1876 – 10 April 1950) was a pivotal figure in modern Turkish history, celebrated both as a distinguished field marshal (Mareşal) and a seasoned politician. His career spanned the final decades of the Ottoman Empire, the tumultuous Turkish War of Independence, and the foundational years of the Republic of Turkey, leaving an indelible mark on the nation's military and political landscape.

A Distinguished Military Career in the Ottoman Empire

Born into a period of profound change for the Ottoman Empire, Fevzi Çakmak embarked on a military path that would define his life. He graduated from the prestigious War College as a Staff Captain, an elite designation, and was initially assigned to the 4th Department of the General Staff. His early career was marked by active participation in the Empire's struggles, including the First Balkan War and the significant Battle of Monastir, which underscored the Empire's "prolonged downfall."

During World War I, he demonstrated exceptional leadership, notably as the Commander of the V Corps throughout the grueling defense of Gallipoli, a campaign that became a symbol of Ottoman resilience. This period was also personally tragic for Çakmak, as his younger brother was killed in action during the fierce fighting at the Battle of Chunuk Bair. Following the war, his merits were recognized, and he was elevated to the rank of Pasha and served as the Chief of General Staff of the Ottoman Empire. In 1919, Grand Vizier Ahmet Tevfik Pasha further entrusted him with the command of the First Army Troops Inspectorate, reflecting his high standing within the Ottoman military.

Transition to the Turkish Nationalist Movement

As the Ottoman Empire faced occupation and dismemberment after World War I, a new nationalist movement began to coalesce around Mustafa Kemal Pasha in Ankara. Fevzi Çakmak briefly served as Minister of War in the Ottoman government in 1920, but soon made a momentous decision that would alter the course of his life and Turkey's future. He left Istanbul to join the burgeoning dissident Grand National Assembly (GNA) in Ankara, which represented the nationalist forces opposing the Ottoman government's acquiescence to Allied terms. He entered the GNA as a Member of Parliament representing Kozan.

Architect of Victory: The Turkish War of Independence

His military acumen and strategic thinking were indispensable to the nascent nationalist government. In 1920, Mustafa Kemal Pasha appointed him as the Minister of National Defense and Deputy Prime Minister within the provisional government. In these crucial roles, Fevzi Çakmak commanded numerous military successes during the Turkish War of Independence, playing a vital part in securing the nation's future. His strategic leadership was particularly evident during the pivotal Battle of Sakarya, a turning point in the war that halted the Greek advance.

His contributions led him to briefly succeed Mustafa Kemal as Prime Minister in 1921. However, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to military leadership during wartime, he resigned from the premiership in 1922 to directly engage in the successful Battle of Dumlupınar, a decisive victory that effectively ended the war. Recognizing his extraordinary service and military brilliance, Mustafa Kemal recommended his promotion, and Fevzi Çakmak was appointed Turkey's second Field Marshal (Mareşal) in 1922, a rank of profound historical significance.

Founding the Republic's Military and Later Political Life

Fevzi Çakmak's influence extended well into the republican era. He had already succeeded İsmet İnönü as the Chief of General Staff in August 1921, even before the Republic's official declaration. He continued to serve in this crucial role after the Turkish Republic was formally established in 1923, becoming the first Chief of General Staff of the Republic of Turkey. He adopted the surname 'Çakmak' in accordance with the 1934 Surname Law, a measure introduced by the new republic.

His long tenure as Chief of General Staff, which lasted until 1944, was instrumental in building and modernizing the Turkish Armed Forces, transforming them from the remnants of an empire into a robust republican institution. Following the death of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in 1938, Fevzi Çakmak was considered a prominent candidate to succeed him as President of Turkey. However, in a demonstration of political pragmatism and national unity, he stood down in favor of İsmet İnönü, who eventually became the second President.

After retiring from his military post in 1944, Çakmak transitioned back into politics, serving as a Member of Parliament for Istanbul from the Democrat Party. Later, he resigned from the Democrats and co-founded the Nation Party alongside Osman Bölükbaşı, signaling his continued engagement in shaping Turkey's multi-party democratic landscape.

A Lasting Legacy

Mustafa Fevzi Çakmak passed away on 10 April 1950, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most respected military commanders and statesmen in Turkish history. He remains, alongside Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, as one of the two and only field marshals of Turkey, a testament to his extraordinary contributions to the nation's founding and its enduring military heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What significant roles did Mustafa Fevzi Çakmak hold in the Ottoman Empire?

He served as Commander of the V Corps during the defense of Gallipoli, became a Pasha, and was Chief of General Staff of the Ottoman Empire after World War I. He also briefly held the position of Minister of War for the Ottoman government in 1920.

How did Fevzi Çakmak contribute to the Turkish War of Independence?

He joined the Grand National Assembly in Ankara, becoming Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense. He commanded numerous military successes, notably during the critical Battles of Sakarya and Dumlupınar, which were decisive in securing Turkey's independence.

What was his relationship with Mustafa Kemal Atatürk?

Fevzi Çakmak was a close military and political ally of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Atatürk appointed him to key roles during the War of Independence and recommended his promotion to Field Marshal. Although considered a successor for the presidency after Atatürk's death, Çakmak stood down in favor of İsmet İnönü.

What is the significance of his title 'Mareşal'?

'Mareşal' is the Turkish equivalent of Field Marshal, the highest military rank. Mustafa Fevzi Çakmak holds this distinction alongside Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, making them the only two individuals in Turkish history to achieve this rank, underscoring their profound military achievements and leadership.

When did Fevzi Çakmak serve as Chief of General Staff of the Republic of Turkey?

He served as Chief of General Staff from August 1921, even before the Republic's official declaration, and continued in this pivotal role until 1944, playing a crucial part in establishing and modernizing the Turkish Armed Forces.

What was Fevzi Çakmak's political involvement after his military career?

After retiring from military service in 1944, he became a Member of Parliament for Istanbul with the Democrat Party. Later, he co-founded the Nation Party with Osman Bölükbaşı, continuing his engagement in Turkish politics during its transition to a multi-party system.