Empire

41. The Rise of Ataturk

Apr 4, 2023

Giles Milton, bestselling author of 'Paradise Lost: Smyrna 1922', joins to explore the tumultuous history of Smyrna and the rise of Mustafa Kemal, later known as Ataturk. The discussion covers the vibrant cultural tapestry of Smyrna before the Greek invasion, revealing the tensions that ignited violence at the end of World War I. Milton sheds light on Ataturk's strategic navigation through complex political landscapes, leading to his emergence as a national leader in a time of chaos and transformation.

53:57

Episode guests

Giles Milton

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

The Interplay of Communities in Smirder before 1922

01:23

Intro

3min

Smyrna: A Tapestry of Cultures

18min

Cultural Resilience and Political Aspirations in Post-War Smyrna

5min

Tensions Erupt: The Greek Occupation of Smyrna

6min

Violence and Turmoil: The Descent into Conflict

4min

The Rise of Ataturk: A Turning Point in Turkish History

7min

Challenges of the Greek Advance

9min

The First World War is over. There is unrest across Anatolia, exacerbated by the Greek invasion coming through Smyrna. Turkish forces are swelling to fight back against the Greeks, and at their head... Mustafa Kemal. Otherwise known as Ataturk. Join William and Anita this week as they are twice joined by Giles Milton to discuss the events of Smyrna in 1922 and the rise of Ataturk.

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Twitter: @Empirepoduk

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Producer: Callum Hill

Exec Producer: Jack Davenport

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