Monday, January 31, 2005

Turkey May Get to See Its Founder -- as Husband

"Turkey May Get to See Its Founder -- as Husband

By Amberin Zaman, Special to The Times


ANKARA, Turkey � The brief and stormy marriage of Kemal Ataturk, this nation's revolutionary founder, has long been shrouded in official secrecy. But the veil of mystery may be lifted this week when the contents of his socialite wife's private letters and diaries are expected to be made public.

Historians say the private writings of the fiercely independent Latife Usakligil should shed new light on her former husband. Ataturk is revered by millions of Turks as the leader who rebuilt their nation after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire and transformed it into one of the more Westernized and secular nations in the Muslim world. "

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