turkey

Anatolian Peninsula

Also known as Asia Minor, it's a significant geographical region in the Middle East.

Bosphorus Strait

A strip of water that divides Europe and Asia.

Crusades

A series of religious wars initiated by Christians in Europe against Muslims for control of the Holy Land.

Seljuk Turks

A group that conquered Jerusalem in 1096, igniting conflicts with Christian Europe.

Cultural diffusion

The spread of cultural beliefs and social activities from one group to another, notably increased during the Crusades.

Ottoman Empire

A historical empire that lasted from around the 14th century until the early 20th century, including parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Mustafa Kemal (Ataturk)

The first president of Turkey and a key figure in transforming it into a modern, secular state.

Young Turks

A group of Turkish nationalists who led the movement for independence and reform in the early 20th century.

Turkey's Independence

Granted in 1923 after being part of the mandate system post-World War I.

NATO

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization, of which Turkey is a member since the Cold War.

Western-style reforms in Turkey

Changes implemented by Ataturk including western dressing, a new constitution, western-style education, and women's rights.