Özet
In the aftermath of the proclamation of the Republic in Türkiye, efforts were made to build a modern and national social identity. Statesmen particularly used social and cultural activities to ensure that the new order would be recognized and accepted by the public. Within this framework, sport gained social and ideological significance and was placed under state control. It is known that, especially after the establishment of the People’s Houses, sports activities were promoted nationwide in line with this approach. In line with the single-party administration of the period, the Republican People’s Party closely supervised and directed all activities carried out within the People’s Houses. Sports activities in the People’s Houses were conducted in line with the principles of populism and nationalism of the Republic. The aim was to create tens of thousands of strong citizens instead of a few elites. This study analyzes early Republican sports policies through People’s House activities to show how sport was understood at the time. The findings show that sports activities in the People’s Houses were seen not only as physical exercises but also as ideological tools designed to strengthen national consciousness and introduce the public to the values of the new regime. Archival documents indicate that sport became an important instrument for realizing the state’s modernization and nationbuilding goals. This study is significant for understanding how sport functioned as a means of expressing Republican values in daily life and for clarifying the role played by the People’s Houses in this process.
Anahtar Kelimeler: Sports, Sporting Events, Republican People’s Party, People’s Houses, Türkiye
Bu makale 5 kez okundu