The Turkish coup attempt in July 2016 shocked the world and changed Turkey's path. It was a sudden military move against the government, aiming to take control by force. But it failed quickly, thanks to strong public resistance and loyal forces.
Why did it happen? The military claimed they were stepping in to protect democracy, but many saw it as a way to stop President Erdogan's growing power. The government blamed a group linked to a cleric named Fethullah Gülen and launched a big crackdown afterward.
Late at night, tanks rolled into Istanbul and Ankara, airports were seized, and soldiers blocked bridges. The streets were tense with confusion and fear. President Erdogan called on citizens through a live TV broadcast to resist. Thousands of people took to the streets, clashing with soldiers. Within hours, the coup was crushed.
The aftermath reshaped Turkey's politics deeply. The government declared emergency powers, arrested thousands, including military personnel, judges, and journalists. It also led to major changes in Turkey's constitution, boosting Erdogan’s presidential powers. This event marked a clear shift away from the old military-influenced politics.
If you're keeping an eye on Turkey, understanding the coup attempt helps explain current tensions and political moves. It's more than history — it’s a key to the country's future.
Fethullah Gulen, an influential Turkish preacher and founder of the Hizmet movement, passed away in the U.S. at 83. Once an ally, his relationship with President Erdogan devolved into fierce rivalry, with accusations surrounding the 2016 coup attempt. These claims, involving serious accusations by Ankara, have been constant subjects of contention, resulting in major governmental crackdowns across various sectors in Turkey.
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