The Life and Legacy of Fethullah Gülen: A Complex Figure in Turkish History
Fethullah Gülen, a name that has sparked extensive debate in Turkey for decades, passed away at the age of 83 in the United States on October 21, 2024. Gülen, originally from the Erzurum region of Turkey, grew up in a deeply religious environment and became a prominent preacher at a young age. His views were shaped during the Cold War, a time when anti-communism and nationalist ideals were strong influences in Turkish society. His involvement in organizations like the "Communism Combat Association" highlighted his opposition to communism, both ideologically and practically.
Throughout his life, Gülen's movement evolved significantly, becoming known as the "Gülen Movement" or "Hizmet" (meaning "service"). It was marked by its focus on education, establishing "light houses" (Işık Evleri) for students and promoting the idea of nurturing a "golden generation." This movement was distinct in its emphasis on Turkish nationalism, free-market economics, and modern education, setting it apart from other religious communities.
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Gülen's influence spread widely, especially in the 1980s and 1990s, as his followers expanded into education, media, and business. He founded schools across the globe, particularly in Central Asia after the fall of the Soviet Union, and developed strong ties with political and business elites. His followers played a key role in Turkey's bureaucracy, particularly in the judiciary, police, and military, which eventually led to accusations of establishing a "parallel state" within Turkey.
By the 2000s, Gülen's movement had a significant relationship with Turkey's ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), with both parties cooperating on various reforms and initiatives. However, tensions grew between Gülen and the Turkish government, particularly after 2012. The conflict culminated in the 2016 failed coup attempt, which the Turkish government accused Gülen's followers of orchestrating. While Gülen denied these claims, the Turkish state classified his movement as a terrorist organization, leading to widespread arrests and purges of his followers.
Fethullah Gülen spent his later years in Pennsylvania, USA, where he had lived since 1999. His death in 2024 marks the end of a controversial era in Turkish politics, but the future of his movement remains uncertain. Leadership struggles within the Gülen movement could shape its direction in the coming years, leaving behind a complex legacy that will continue to be debated both in Turkey and abroad.
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