The Perception of Lausanne in Turkish Politics between Two Coups (1960-1980)

The War of Independence, led by Mustafa Kemal Pasha, culminated in the establishment of the Turkish Republic, rooted in the principles of the National Pact ( Misak-& imath; Milli). A key diplomatic achievement of the victory of this war was the Lausanne Peace Treaty, signed on July 24, 1923, by the Turkish delegation led by & Idot;smet Pasha. The treaty became symbol of the Republic's foundation, and its anniversaries were celebrated nationwide as "Lausanne Day". Following Mustafa Kemal Atat & uuml;rk's death on November 10, 1938, & Idot;smet & Idot;n & ouml;n & uuml; assumed the presidency and was widely regarded the architect of the Lausanne Treaty. The slogan "Lausanne is & Idot;n & ouml;n & uuml;" underscored this association. However, during Democratic Party (DP) era, the Lausanne celebrations diminished in prominence. After the May 27 Coup in 1960, were revived, often linked with & Idot;n & ouml;n & uuml;. As Turkish politics normalized post-coup, the perception of Lausanne evolved. Domestically, it fostered national sentiment, while in foreign policy, it was increasingly cited as a foundational document in addressing diplomatic challenges. In the 1970s, escalating tensions with Greece underscored the importance maintaining the balance established by the treaty. Consequently, Lausanne anniversaries were commemorated alongside Press Day and Labor Rights, reflecting its multifaceted significance. This article examines how the Lausanne Peace Treaty was reinterpreted during the period between the two coups, shaped by domestic and international developments. Special emphasis is placed on its connection to press-related themes, employing a comparative approach supported by historical research.