Today in History – 25/26 July

Correspondence between Atatürk and İnönü

It was 1938… Feverish, Atatürk was lying in bed at Dolmabahçe and İsmet İnönü was on his sick bed in Ankara. The anniversary of the Treaty of Lausanne had thus passed. As soon as he regained his health the next day, Atatürk had Hasan Rıza Soyak write the following note to be delivered to İnönü:

It was the day of Lausanne; I think of him with much admiration and affection. Congratulations. He is ill, as am I; we are going through some difficult days. I remember that day. He should not bother to reply and tire himself. Vedit (Uzgören) can submit it.

In response to this graceful gesture, İsmet İnönü wrote the following reply on July 26th:

Dear, Noble Atatürk,

You were gracious enough to offer me your compliments on the occasion of Lausanne Day. You forgot your own ailment and lent me vigor and happiness. Please accept my gratitude and appreciation.

My Benefactor,

I am certain that we will soon overcome these days of sickness. With all your health and good spirits regained, you will honorably rule the nation and the country for many years to come.

I kiss your hands with profound honor and insufferable longing, my benefactor.

As this correspondence reveals, despite occasional disagreements, these two great statesmen always harbored much love and respect for one another.