Burhan Asaf Belge, Turkish diplomat (d. 1967)

Burhan Asaf Belge: A Prominent Intellectual and Politician of Early Republican Turkey

Burhan Asaf Belge (February 1, 1899 – January 12, 1967) was a significant Turkish intellectual and politician whose multifaceted career spanned crucial periods in the formation and development of the Republic of Turkey. His contributions were instrumental in shaping intellectual discourse, providing political representation, and forging notable personal connections within the nation's burgeoning elite and cultural spheres.

Intellectual Leadership and the Kadro Journal

Belge emerged as a prominent figure among the young intellectuals during the formative and transformative years of the Republic of Turkey. This era, immediately following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire and the establishment of a new, secular, and nationalist state under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, was marked by an intense national search for a new identity, a viable political system, and an effective economic development model. Burhan Asaf Belge's most significant intellectual contribution was his regular involvement and core role with Kadro, a highly influential left-wing journal published between 1932 and 1934. This pioneering publication served as a vital platform for "discussions on ideology and economic-development strategy," advocating for a unique Turkish path to modernization and nation-building, distinct from both Western capitalism and Soviet communism. Kadro's core philosophy, often referred to as "Kadroism" or "National Kemalism," championed a robust, state-led economic model (etatism) as absolutely essential for achieving true national independence and comprehensive progress. Belge was not only a dedicated regular contributor but also one of its key intellectual architects, collaborating closely with other notable figures such as Şevket Süreyya Aydemir, Vedat Nedim Tör, and his brother-in-law, Yakup Kadri Karaosmanoğlu. Despite its relatively short publication period, Kadro significantly shaped and directed the intellectual debates on Turkey's future direction and its national development paradigm.

Political Service in the Turkish National Assembly

Beyond his profound intellectual engagement and editorial work, Burhan Asaf Belge also pursued a direct parliamentary career, demonstrating his commitment to active political governance. He served as the representative for Muğla province during the 11th term of the Turkish National Assembly. This specific legislative period spanned from October 27, 1957, to May 27, 1960. His tenure in the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM) positioned him directly within the nation's political decision-making processes, underscoring his dedication to actively shaping public policy and contributing to the legislative framework during a dynamic decade in Turkish political history, thus transitioning from the realm of intellectual discourse to direct legislative action.

Personal Life and Distinguished Connections

Burhan Asaf Belge's personal life further highlights his extensive connections to prominent cultural and intellectual circles in Turkey and internationally. He was the father of Murat Belge, who himself has since become one of Turkey's most distinguished contemporary intellectuals, widely recognized for his significant contributions as a literary critic, essayist, academic, and translator. Additionally, Burhan Asaf Belge was notably the first husband of the internationally acclaimed Hungarian-American actress and socialite Zsa Zsa Gabor. Their marriage took place from May 1935 to December 1941. It is important to clarify that despite their union, they never had any children together. His familial ties also extended significantly to Yakup Kadri Karaosmanoğlu, a highly influential Turkish novelist, journalist, diplomat, and a co-founder of the Kadro journal, reinforcing Belge's deep embeddedness within the foundational intellectual and political networks of the nascent Turkish Republic.

Frequently Asked Questions About Burhan Asaf Belge

Who was Burhan Asaf Belge?

Burhan Asaf Belge (1899-1967) was a prominent Turkish politician and intellectual. He was a key figure among young intellectuals during the early years of the Turkish Republic, widely recognized for his significant contributions to the influential Kadro journal and his service as a Member of Parliament representing Muğla province.

What was the significance of the Kadro journal?

Kadro was a pivotal left-wing journal published from 1932 to 1934. It was instrumental in developing and discussing the ideology of "Kadroism" or "National Kemalism," which advocated for a unique, state-led economic and social development model for Turkey, distinct from both Western capitalism and Soviet communism.

What was Burhan Asaf Belge's connection to Zsa Zsa Gabor?

Burhan Asaf Belge was famously the first husband of the celebrated Hungarian-American actress and socialite Zsa Zsa Gabor. Their marriage took place from May 1935 to December 1941, but it is important to note that they did not have any children together.

Who is Murat Belge?

Murat Belge is the son of Burhan Asaf Belge. He is a highly respected contemporary Turkish intellectual, renowned for his prolific work as a literary critic, essayist, academic, and translator, continuing his family's legacy of intellectual contribution.

When did Burhan Asaf Belge serve in the Turkish National Assembly?

Burhan Asaf Belge served as the representative for Muğla province during the 11th term of the Turkish National Assembly, which spanned from October 27, 1957, to May 27, 1960.