The A to Z of Turkey

Although the Turks have been living in Anatolia for the last millennium, the country has undergone extensive Westernization since the end of the 18th century. Tradition has not arrested modernization; rather, the traditional has adapted to the modern. The revival of Islam and the emergence of certain ethnic identities during recent decades have not led to led to the reversal of democracy or economic progress. The private sector is thriving and the economy continues to grow.

At the turn of the 21st century, Turkey is the only Muslim country with a democratic political system. Because it belongs to both West and East, Turkey's Western credentials are more marked. A member of the Council of Europe, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), and Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), Turkey is presently in negotiations with the European Union (EU) for full membership.

The A to Z of Turkey explores the history of this fascinating country through a chronology, introductory essay, bibliography, and hundreds of cross-referenced dictionary entries on important people, places, events, and institutions, as well as significant political, economic, social, and cultural aspects.

Metin Heper is professor of political science at Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey, and a founding member of the Turkish Academy of Sciences.
Nur Bilge Criss is assistant professor of international relations at Bilkent University, Ankara.