Süleyman Demirel

First Term as Prime Minister

Demirel became Prime Minister for the first time at age 41, leading the Justice Party. His engineering background and focus on development began shaping Turkish modernization.

First Military Coup

Demirel's government was ousted in a military coup, the first of several interruptions to his political career. Turkish military intervention would repeatedly disrupt his tenures.

Returns as Prime Minister

Demirel returned to power as Prime Minister during a period of political instability and economic crisis. His ability to navigate Turkey's fractious politics demonstrated his political resilience.

Second Military Coup

Another military coup removed Demirel from power and temporarily banned him from politics. The decade of the 1980s saw him largely sidelined from Turkish politics.

Returns as Prime Minister Again

After the ban on his political activity was lifted, Demirel returned as Prime Minister for the seventh and final time. His political longevity was remarkable.

Elected President of Turkey

Demirel was elected President, a largely ceremonial role, where he served until 2000. This position provided stability after decades of tumultuous political involvement.

Death at Age 90

Demirel died at age 90, receiving a state funeral. His death marked the end of an era for Turkey, as he was one of the last major figures from the pre-AKP political establishment.

Remembered Turkish Statesman

A decade after his death, Demirel is remembered as a dominant figure in Turkish politics who served as Prime Minister seven times. His legacy reflects Turkey's turbulent 20th-century political history, and he remains respected as a key architect of modern Turkey.