Conceptualizing the Turkish Revolution in the Longue Durée

Abstract Through a combination of the methods of theoretical review and historical-narrative analysis, this study seeks to unveil the main catalysts of the Turkish Revolution by addressing its structural and subjective dynamics in tandem. The literature lacks a theoretically-guided and systematic study of the Turkish Revolution, which marked its centenary in 2023—a significant gap that this paper seeks to fill. The article also contributes to the broader field of revolution studies by presenting an integrated framework that transcends the current fragmented state of prevailing theories. Based on a critical synthesis of revolution theories, the first part of our empirical analysis focuses on the structural dynamics underpinning the Turkish Revolution, with special emphasis on two chief factors: administrative and socio-economic breakdown. Demonstrating that the mere existence of class-structural strains and mass grievances does not automatically trigger revolutionary action, the second part reveals how the Revolution unfolded through a convergence of mediating factors associated with collective agency, namely leadership and ideational dynamics.