Alparslan Türkeş, Turkish colonel and politician, 39th Deputy Prime Minister of Turkey (b. 1917)

Alparslan Türkeş (Turkish pronunciation: [alˈpaɾsɫan tyɾˈceʃ]), born on November 25, 1917, and passing away on April 4, 1997, was a profoundly influential figure in Turkish politics, best known as the founder and long-standing president of the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP). His political career spanned several critical decades of Turkish history, where he consistently championed a brand of nationalism that left an indelible mark on the nation's political landscape. To his fervent followers, both during his lifetime and extending to the present day, he is reverently referred to as Başbuğ, a powerful Turkish title meaning "Leader" or "Chief," underscoring his pivotal role and the deep loyalty he commanded.

The Architect of Turkish Nationalism: Alparslan Türkeş's Journey

Born Alparslan Feyzullah Türkeş in Nicosia, Cyprus, a territory then under British administration, his early life was shaped by a strong sense of Turkish identity. He later moved to Turkey for his education, eventually graduating from the War Academy in 1944. His initial career was in the military, where he rose through the ranks, witnessing firsthand the turbulent post-World War II era and the early years of multi-party democracy in Turkey. This military background would significantly influence his later political approach, imbuing it with discipline and a sense of mission.

From Military Officer to Political Leader

Türkeş played a notable, albeit controversial, role in the 1960 Turkish coup d'état, which overthrew the democratically elected government of Adnan Menderes. As one of the "Juniors" within the National Unity Committee, he was instrumental in the coup, advocating for a strong, nationalistic direction for the country. However, internal disagreements within the committee led to his eventual removal and brief exile, a period that further solidified his resolve to shape Turkey's political future. Upon his return, he transitioned from military life to direct political engagement, believing that only through organized political action could his vision for Turkey be realized.

Founding the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP)

In 1965, Türkeş assumed leadership of the Republican Villagers Nation Party (CKMP), which he strategically rebranded in 1969 as the Nationalist Movement Party (Milliyetçi Hareket Partisi – MHP). This transformation was not merely a change of name; it marked the formal establishment of a political entity designed to champion his unique blend of Turkish nationalism. The MHP, under Türkeş's guidance, quickly positioned itself on the far-right of the Turkish political spectrum, advocating for a powerful, unitary Turkish state, strong national identity, and a staunchly anti-communist stance during the Cold War era. The party's ideology, often encapsulated in the "Nine Lights Doctrine" (Dokuz Işık), emphasized principles like nationalism, idealism (Ülkücülük), morality, and progress, aiming to guide Turkey towards a glorious future based on its historical and cultural foundations.

The Legacy of Başbuğ

Alparslan Türkeş's leadership of the MHP was characterized by fervent activism and a deep connection with the youth. The party's youth wing, famously known as the "Grey Wolves" (Ülkü Ocakları), became a significant force, embodying the passionate and sometimes confrontational spirit of his movement. Throughout the volatile political landscape of the 1970s, the MHP and its associated organizations played a prominent role, often at the center of ideological clashes. Despite periods of political suppression, including his imprisonment after the 1980 military coup, Türkeş remained an unyielding figure. His release and return to politics in the late 1980s underscored his enduring appeal and the resilience of the nationalist movement he had fostered. His passing in 1997 marked the end of an era, but the Nationalist Movement Party continues to be a significant player in Turkish politics, consistently invoking his legacy and the ideals he espoused. The title of Başbuğ remains exclusively his, a testament to his unparalleled status among his followers as the ultimate "Leader" of Turkish nationalism.

Frequently Asked Questions About Alparslan Türkeş

Who was Alparslan Türkeş?

Alparslan Türkeş was a prominent Turkish politician, a former military officer, and the founder and long-serving president of the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP). He is widely regarded as the spiritual leader of the Turkish nationalist movement.

What political party did Alparslan Türkeş found?

He founded the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) in 1969, after transforming the Republican Villagers Nation Party (CKMP) which he had taken over in 1965.

What does "Başbuğ" mean and why was he called that?

"Başbuğ" is an ancient Turkic title meaning "Leader" or "Chief." Alparslan Türkeş was called Başbuğ by his devotees to signify his ultimate leadership and revered status within the Turkish nationalist movement, akin to a spiritual and political guide.

What was Alparslan Türkeş's political ideology?

His political ideology was a blend of Turkish nationalism, Pan-Turkism, and staunch anti-communism. He promoted a vision for Turkey based on strong national identity, cultural preservation, and a powerful, unitary state, often summarized by his "Nine Lights Doctrine."

When did Alparslan Türkeş live?

Alparslan Türkeş was born on November 25, 1917, and passed away on April 4, 1997.

What is the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) today?

The Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) continues to be a significant political party in Turkey, upholding the nationalist ideology established by Türkeş. It remains a key actor in Turkish politics, often forming alliances and participating in governments.