Burhan Asaf Belge, Turkish diplomat (b. 1887)

Burhan Asaf Belge (February 1, 1899 – January 12, 1967) was a highly influential figure in Turkey, renowned for his multifaceted contributions as a politician, intellectual, and journalist during the formative years of the Turkish Republic. His life spanned a period of significant national transformation, allowing him to play a direct role in shaping public discourse and policy.

A Key Figure in Early Republican Turkey

Belge emerged as a prominent voice among the "young intellectuals" who actively participated in the nation-building process following the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923. This cohort of thinkers, often educated with a broad perspective, dedicated themselves to defining and implementing the new state's identity and direction. As a politician, Burhan Asaf Belge further contributed to the nascent democracy, serving as the esteemed representative for Muğla province during the 11th term of the Turkish National Assembly (1957-1960). His tenure coincided with a dynamic period in Turkish multi-party politics, just prior to the significant political shifts of the 1960s.

Intellectual Contributions and the Kadro Journal

Beyond his political roles, Burhan Asaf Belge was deeply engaged in intellectual discourse, most notably as a regular contributor to the influential journal Kadro. Published between 1932 and 1934, Kadro was far more than a mere periodical; it served as a critical platform for articulating the core tenets of the new Turkish state, particularly its unique socio-economic model. The journal's central focus revolved around "discussions on ideology and economic-development strategy," aiming to provide a theoretical framework for a truly independent and prosperous Turkey.

• Ideological Foundation:Kadro championed Statism (Devletçilik), a fundamental principle of Kemalism that advocated for strong state intervention in the economy to achieve rapid industrialization and national development, distinguishing Turkey's path from both Western capitalism and Soviet communism.
• Key Contributors: Belge joined a distinguished group of intellectuals, including co-founders Şevket Süreyya Aydemir and Yakup Kadri Karaosmanoğlu, who sought to institutionalize a planned economy and a self-sufficient national identity.
• "Left-Wing" Context: While labeled "left-wing," this designation in the context of early Republican Turkey primarily referred to its advocacy for state-led development and social planning, rather than a Marxist orientation.

Belge's contributions to Kadro underscore his commitment to shaping a distinctive national vision and his intellectual prowess in navigating complex economic and social debates.

Notable Family and Marital Connections

Burhan Asaf Belge's personal life also intersected with prominent figures, highlighting the interconnectedness of Turkish intellectual and artistic circles. He was the father of Murat Belge, a distinguished contemporary Turkish intellectual, writer, and literary critic who has continued his family's legacy of contributing significantly to Turkish thought and culture. Additionally, Burhan Asaf Belge garnered international attention as the first husband of the celebrated Hungarian-American actress Zsa Zsa Gabor. Their marriage, spanning from May 1935 to December 1941, was a notable chapter in his personal life, though it is a verified fact that they did not have any children together. Furthermore, Burhan Asaf Belge was the brother-in-law of the eminent Turkish novelist, journalist, and diplomat Yakup Kadri Karaosmanoğlu. This familial tie was particularly significant given Karaosmanoğlu's own prominent role as a co-founder and leading figure of the Kadro journal, reinforcing the close intellectual and personal bonds within this influential group.

Frequently Asked Questions About Burhan Asaf Belge

Discover more about Burhan Asaf Belge's life and impact:

Who was Burhan Asaf Belge?

Burhan Asaf Belge was a significant Turkish politician, intellectual, and journalist (1899-1967) who played an active role in the early Republican era. He was known for his contributions to political discourse, particularly through the Kadro journal, and his service as a Member of Parliament for Muğla.

What was the significance of the Kadro journal?

Kadro was an influential Turkish journal published from 1932 to 1934. It was crucial for developing and advocating the ideological and economic framework of early Republican Turkey, especially promoting Statism (Devletçilik) as a state-led development model within Kemalism. Burhan Asaf Belge was a key contributor.

What were Burhan Asaf Belge's notable family and marital connections?

He was the father of contemporary Turkish intellectual Murat Belge. Internationally, he was known as the first husband of actress Zsa Zsa Gabor (1935-1941), though they had no children. He was also the brother-in-law of acclaimed novelist and Kadro co-founder Yakup Kadri Karaosmanoğlu, highlighting his connections within prominent intellectual circles.