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Influential Turkish Individuals: The Top 10 Names to Know

6 min read January 19, 2024

Turkey has produced a remarkable array of celebrities and notable individuals who have left an indelible mark on various industries and fields.

  • Tarkan: A globally renowned pop music sensation, Tarkan has captivated audiences worldwide with his energetic performances and chart-topping hits. His music transcends cultural boundaries, making him an icon of Turkish pop culture.
  • Kenan İmirzalıoğlu: A versatile actor with an impressive career spanning over two decades, Kenan İmirzalıoğlu has starred in numerous successful TV series and films. His charisma and acting prowess have made him a household name in Turkey.
  • Nuri Bilge Ceylan: A critically acclaimed filmmaker, Nuri Bilge Ceylan has gained international recognition for his thought-provoking and visually stunning films. His works explore themes of identity, alienation, and the human condition, earning him numerous awards and accolades.
  • Mehmet Oz: A renowned cardiothoracic surgeon and television personality, Mehmet Oz has gained popularity for his medical advice and lifestyle shows. His engaging demeanor and expertise have made him a trusted figure in the health and wellness community.
  • Elif Shafak: An award-winning novelist and public intellectual, Elif Shafak has captivated readers with her thought-provoking books that explore issues of identity, gender, and cultural diversity. Her works have been translated into over 50 languages, earning her international acclaim.
  • Hakan Çalhanoğlu: A talented footballer, Hakan Çalhanoğlu has made a name for himself in the world of soccer. With his exceptional dribbling skills and powerful shots, he has become a key player for both club and country.
  • Elon Musk: While not of Turkish ethnicity, Elon Musk has strong ties to Turkey through his mother, Maye Musk. As a visionary entrepreneur, engineer, and business magnate, Musk has revolutionized industries with his groundbreaking work in electric cars, space exploration, and renewable energy.
  • Günseli Başar: A neurologist and professor, Günseli Başar has made significant contributions to the field of brain research. Her groundbreaking studies on brain oscillations and consciousness have earned her international recognition and numerous awards.
  • Cengiz Under: A rising star in international football, Cengiz Under has impressed fans with his exceptional skills and pace. He has represented Turkey at various levels and has attracted the attention of top European clubs.
  • Zeki Müren: Known as the “Sun of Art,” Zeki Müren was a legendary Turkish singer and actor. His distinctive voice and flamboyant stage presence made him a beloved figure in Turkish music, earning him the title of “Diva.”
Turkish people or Turks (Turkish: Türkler) are the largest Turkic people who speak various dialects of the Turkish language and form a majority in Turkey and Northern Cyprus. In addition, centuries-old ethnic Turkish communities still live across other former territories of the Ottoman Empire. Article 66 of the Turkish Constitution defines a "Turk" as: "Anyone who is bound to the Turkish state through the bond of citizenship." While the legal use of the term "Turkish" as it pertains to a citizen of Turkey is different from the term's ethnic definition, the majority of the Turkish population (an estimated 70 to 75 percent) are of Turkish ethnicity. The vast majority of Turks are Muslims and follow the Sunni and Alevi faith.The ethnic Turks can therefore be distinguished by a number of cultural and regional variants, but do not function as separate ethnic groups. In particular, the culture of the Anatolian Turks in Asia Minor has underlain and influenced the Turkish nationalist ideology. Other Turkish groups include the Rumelian Turks (also referred to as "Balkan Turks") historically located in the Balkans; Turkish Cypriots on the island of Cyprus, Meskhetian Turks originally based in Meskheti, Georgia; and ethnic Turkish people across the Middle East, where they are also called "Turkmen" or "Turkoman" in the Levant (e.g. Iraqi Turkmen, Syrian Turkmen, Lebanese Turkmen, etc.). Consequently, the Turks form the largest minority group in Bulgaria, the second largest minority group in Iraq, Libya, North Macedonia, and Syria, and the third largest minority group in Kosovo. They also form substantial communities in the Western Thrace region of Greece, the Dobruja region of Romania, the Akkar region in Lebanon, as well as minority groups in other post-Ottoman Balkan and Middle Eastern countries. Mass immigration due to fleeing ethnic cleansing after the persecution of Muslims during Ottoman contraction has led to mass migrations from the 19th century onward; these Turkish communities have all contributed to the formation of a Turkish diaspora outside the former Ottoman lands. Approximately 2 million Turks were massacred between 1870 and 1923 and those who escaped it settled in Turkey as muhacirs. The mass immigration of Turks also led to them forming the largest ethnic minority group in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands. There are also Turkish communities in other parts of Europe as well as in North America, Australia and the Post-Soviet states. Turks are the 13th largest ethnic group in the world. Turks from Central Asia settled in Anatolia in the 11th century, through the conquests of the Seljuk Turks. This began the transformation of the region, which had been a largely Greek-speaking region after previously being Hellenized, into a Turkish Muslim one. The Ottoman Empire came to rule much of the Balkans, the South Caucasus, the Middle East (excluding Iran, even though they controlled parts of it), and North Africa over the course of several centuries. The empire lasted until the end of the First World War, when it was defeated by the Allies and partitioned. Following the Turkish War of Independence that ended with the Turkish National Movement retaking much of the territory lost to the Allies, the Movement ended the Ottoman Empire on 1 November 1922 and proclaimed the Republic of Turkey on 29 October 1923.

Most Famous Turkish People

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Turkish Mystique: Unraveling Three Key Historical Legacies

The Turkish community has a rich cultural heritage that spans centuries. From the Byzantine Empire to the Ottoman Empire, Turkey has a long and storied history that has left a lasting impact on the world. Today, there are millions of people around the globe who proudly identify with their Turkish roots. Let’s take a closer look at three of the most well-known historical inheritances associated with the Turkish heritage.

The Byzantine Empire

The Byzantine Empire, also known as the Eastern Roman Empire, was a continuation of the Roman Empire in its eastern provinces. It was centered in Constantinople (present-day Istanbul) and lasted for over a millennium, from the 4th century AD until the 15th century AD. The Byzantine Empire had a significant influence on the development of art, architecture, and literature. Some of the most iconic Byzantine structures still stand in modern-day Turkey, such as the Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern.

The Ottoman Empire

The Ottoman Empire, founded in the late 13th century, was a Turkish state that lasted for over six centuries until its dissolution in the early 20th century. It was one of the largest and most powerful empires in history, spanning three continents and ruling over diverse communities and cultures. The Ottoman Empire is known for its military prowess, administrative reforms, and its contribution to Islamic arts and culture. Istanbul, once the capital of the Ottoman Empire, still showcases the grandeur and splendor of this era through its magnificent palaces, mosques, and bazaars.

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Turkish Cuisine

Turkish cuisine is renowned worldwide for its delicious flavors and unique culinary traditions. With its diverse influences from Central Asia, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean, Turkish cuisine offers a wide array of mouthwatering dishes. From kebabs and mezze to baklava and Turkish tea, there is something to satisfy every palate. Traditional Turkish breakfast, known as “kahvaltı,” is a feast in itself, featuring an assortment of olives, cheese, honey, bread, and more. Turkish coffee, prepared with finely ground coffee beans and brewed in a cezve, is also a cherished part of the country’s culinary heritage.

Notable Turkish Historical Inheritances:

  • The Byzantine Empire
  • The Ottoman Empire
  • Turkish Cuisine

Turkey’s history is a tapestry woven with diverse influences and contributions. The Byzantine and Ottoman Empires have left indelible imprints on architecture, art, and culture, with iconic landmarks still standing to this day. Turkish cuisine, with its unique blend of flavors and culinary techniques, continues to delight food lovers worldwide. These three historical inheritances are only a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Turkish community, which has shaped not only the country but also the world at large.

In a striking celebration of diversity, numerous prominent individuals proudly reflect a mosaic of Herzegovinian, Bosnian and Austrian roots, highlighting the intricate interplay of cultures within their heritage. From accomplished leaders to acclaimed artists, these figures embody the rich lexical semantic tapestry of ethnic backgrounds, illustrating the vibrant spectrum of human experiences.

Factsheet About Turkish People

Total Population 84,339,067
Percentage of Population 70%
Geographical Distribution Primarily in Turkey, significant populations in Germany, France, Netherlands
Language Turkish
Religion Majority Islam (Sunni)
Turkish people or Turks (Turkish: Türkler) are the largest Turkic people who speak various dialects of the Turkish language and form a majority in Turkey and Northern Cyprus. In addition, centuries-old ethnic Turkish communities still live across other former territories of the Ottoman Empire. Article 66 of the Turkish Constitution defines a "Turk" as: "Anyone who is bound to the Turkish state through the bond of citizenship." While the legal use of the term "Turkish" as it pertains to a citizen of Turkey is different from the term's ethnic definition, the majority of the Turkish population (an estimated 70 to 75 percent) are of Turkish ethnicity. The vast majority of Turks are Muslims and follow the Sunni and Alevi faith.The ethnic Turks can therefore be distinguished by a number of cultural and regional variants, but do not function as separate ethnic groups. In particular, the culture of the Anatolian Turks in Asia Minor has underlain and influenced the Turkish nationalist ideology. Other Turkish groups include the Rumelian Turks (also referred to as "Balkan Turks") historically located in the Balkans; Turkish Cypriots on the island of Cyprus, Meskhetian Turks originally based in Meskheti, Georgia; and ethnic Turkish people across the Middle East, where they are also called "Turkmen" or "Turkoman" in the Levant (e.g. Iraqi Turkmen, Syrian Turkmen, Lebanese Turkmen, etc.). Consequently, the Turks form the largest minority group in Bulgaria, the second largest minority group in Iraq, Libya, North Macedonia, and Syria, and the third largest minority group in Kosovo. They also form substantial communities in the Western Thrace region of Greece, the Dobruja region of Romania, the Akkar region in Lebanon, as well as minority groups in other post-Ottoman Balkan and Middle Eastern countries. Mass immigration due to fleeing ethnic cleansing after the persecution of Muslims during Ottoman contraction has led to mass migrations from the 19th century onward; these Turkish communities have all contributed to the formation of a Turkish diaspora outside the former Ottoman lands. Approximately 2 million Turks were massacred between 1870 and 1923 and those who escaped it settled in Turkey as muhacirs. The mass immigration of Turks also led to them forming the largest ethnic minority group in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands. There are also Turkish communities in other parts of Europe as well as in North America, Australia and the Post-Soviet states. Turks are the 13th largest ethnic group in the world. Turks from Central Asia settled in Anatolia in the 11th century, through the conquests of the Seljuk Turks. This began the transformation of the region, which had been a largely Greek-speaking region after previously being Hellenized, into a Turkish Muslim one. The Ottoman Empire came to rule much of the Balkans, the South Caucasus, the Middle East (excluding Iran, even though they controlled parts of it), and North Africa over the course of several centuries. The empire lasted until the end of the First World War, when it was defeated by the Allies and partitioned. Following the Turkish War of Independence that ended with the Turkish National Movement retaking much of the territory lost to the Allies, the Movement ended the Ottoman Empire on 1 November 1922 and proclaimed the Republic of Turkey on 29 October 1923.

The Ancient Heritage of Turkish Ethnic Groups

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Turkish Ethnicity: References and Resources

When researching about the Turkish ethnic group, there are various references and resources that can provide valuable information. These sources offer insights into the history, language, culture, and traditions of the Turkish people. Here are some references and resources to dig deeper:

  • “A History of the Turkish People: From Ancient Central Asia to the Turkish Republic” by Stanford J. Shaw – This comprehensive book provides an in-depth analysis of the Turkish people’s history, beginning from their origins in Central Asia to the establishment of the modern Turkish Republic. It offers valuable insights into the cultural, social, and political developments that shaped the Turkish ethnic group.
  • “Turkish Language, Literature, and History: Travelers’ Tales, Sultans, and Scholars since the Eighth Century” edited by Bill Hickman – This collection of essays explores the Turkish language, literature, and history. It includes valuable primary sources and accounts from travelers, sultans, and scholars who encountered the Turkish people throughout history. The book offers a multidimensional understanding of the Turkish ethnic group.
  • The Turkish Statistical Institute (TurkStat) – TurkStat is the official source for statistical data in Turkey. Their website provides demographic and socio-economic information about the Turkish ethnic group. It includes data on population, education, employment, and more. TurkStat’s reports and publications are a valuable resource for understanding the current dynamics and trends within the Turkish population.
  • Online Archives – Websites such as “Chronicling America” (Library of Congress), “Europeana”, and “British Library” contain a wealth of digitized newspapers, magazines, and historical documents. These archives can be searched for materials related to the Turkish ethnic group, including articles, photographs, and personal testimonies.

By exploring these references and resources, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of the Turkish ethnic group, its history, language, culture, and societal dynamics. Whether through historical books, linguistic accounts, statistical data, or online archives, there is a wealth of information available to those interested in studying or learning more about the Turkish people.

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Syarif Muhamad

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