Meaning, Importance and History of May 19

One of the most important events in the history of Turkey is Atatürk's dedication of the victory in the national struggle to the youth.

May 19 is not only a struggle for independence but also an important milestone in shaping the future of young people. For this reason, May 19 Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day is celebrated every year with various events all over Turkey to commemorate Atatürk's victory in Samsun.

So, what is the importance of May 19 in the field of youth and sports? Why is this date considered as the beginning of the struggle for independence? What role did young people play in this process?

We have compiled all your curiosities about the Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day, which we celebrate the 103rd Anniversary this year. Let's take a look at the history and importance of this special day together.

What is May 19 History?

May 19 is celebrated every year to commemorate the founder of the Republic of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who started the national struggle by setting foot in Samsun and the independence of the youth. Since 1938, it has been declared as an official holiday.

There are various discourses about why Youth and Sports Day is May 19. The most accepted of these is that Atatürk's birthday is May 19, although his actual date of birth is unknown. Approximately 4 months before his death, Atatürk wanted this meaningful day to be entrusted to young people.

On June 20, 1938, with the law enacted, this holiday was renamed 'Youth and Sports Day' and celebrated under this name until 1980. In 1981, it was renamed 'May 19 Commemoration of Atatürk Youth and Sports Day'. Thus, May 19 is a combination of Atatürk's birthday, the year the Nutuk was written, the first step in the struggle for independence and the historical process of the youth holiday.

What is the Importance of May 19 in the Field of Youth and Sports?

May 19 Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day is celebrated in order for young people to understand the importance of national values and to strengthen sports with young generations. Atatürk has always emphasized the importance of sports in the physical and mental development of young people. For this reason, May 19 is celebrated as a holiday where young people are encouraged to participate in sports and sports activities are exhibited.

19 May also increases the participation of young people in sporting and cultural organizations. These events provide a common platform where young people develop the skills to organize in groups or individually and reinforce their sense of acting together.

What are the May 19th Celebrations in Turkey?

May 19 is celebrated every year with various events all over Turkey. Student groups, teachers and citizens come together every year with various events. These events express the commitment of Turkish youth to this victory achieved by Atatürk.

However, the activities held on May 19 Youth and Sports Day are as follows;

• Marches and celebrations are held in city squares.
• Dance rehearsals are held months in advance.
• Atatürk's favorite songs are performed and concerts are organized.
• Sports competitions are held.
• Schools are decorated with the theme of May 19.
• Students build human towers in stadiums.
• Anıtkabir is visited and a commemoration ceremony is organized.

On May 19, there are large-scale sports shows, concerts, marches and celebrations from Samsun to Ankara, from Ankara to Istanbul. For the May 19 performances, young people practice choreography in areas such as dance, music and sports months in advance. The performances continued with this tradition from generation to generation and these choreographies became a tradition.

The Great Leader Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk started the national struggle as soon as he set foot in Samsun and succeeded in establishing the Republic of Turkey despite all the difficulties experienced. This victory, which he entrusted to his nation, is celebrated with the same enthusiasm every year throughout the country. May 19 Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day is celebrated with our sincerest wishes!

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