In this discussion-based history course, we will survey the history of the modern Republic of Türkiye, also known as Turkey. We will ask various questions, beginning with the following: How did the dramatic decline and collapse of the Ottoman Empire—a once formidable empire extending from Algeria to Iraq and from Hungary to Sudan—shape the foundations of modern Türkiye?
The Republic’s founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk (1881–1938), managed to revive the country within its present boundaries. Major modernization reforms included dropping the country’s Islamic identity and adopting a secular European identity (with a pan-Turkic flavour) after having been the seat of the Muslim Caliphate for over four centuries (1517–1924). In what ways did Atatürk’s reforms transform Turkish society and identity, and how are these changes perceived today? How has Türkiye balanced its Islamic heritage with its secular political system?
After a turbulent and unstable period characterized by the interference of the military, Türkiye eventually achieved significant economic progress in recent decades under the rule of the controversial Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. How has the role of the military evolved over time, and what impact has it had on democratic development and economic growth?
A member of NATO, Türkiye possesses the alliance’s second most powerful army after the United States. Though it applied for membership in the European Union in 1987, it is still waiting to be admitted. How does Türkiye’s NATO membership shape its global influence? Why has its bid to join the European Union faced ongoing challenges?
Seen by some as imperialist due to its involvement in Syria, Libya, and even sub-Saharan Africa, the country continues to assert its regional and global ambitions. How should Türkiye’s foreign policy be interpreted—strategic necessity, regional leadership, or expansionism? What opportunities and risks come from its position between East and West? What direction might Türkiye take in the future?
Some of the sessions will be held on Zoom. Please make sure to have the Zoom application installed before class.
Required Texts:
Participants must obtain a copy of the required texts at the bookstore or library of their choice.
Standard Tuition: $210.00
New Participant Tuition: $150.00
Day: Thursdays
Time: 1:30 - 3:30 PM
Location: Alternating online and in-person
Course leaders: Ossama El Naggar, Heather Stephens
Please note that in the case of extenuating circumstances (e.g. a snowstorm) an in-person course may be temporarily held on Zoom.
First session: September 17 2026
Course length: 12 weeks
Degree credit: 3
Maximum number of participants: 18
Please note that the Thomas More Institute does not allow participants to audit courses for free.
About the Thomas More Institute: The Thomas More Institute has been providing adults with stimulating lifelong learning opportunities in Montreal since 1945. A secular and non-profit academic institution, TMI offers an ever-evolving choice of university-level courses in the liberal arts, including discussion-based courses, lecture-style courses, writing workshops, and more. Our courses are held in small groups, offering an alternative learning environment to that of traditional university courses. You can take individual courses that interest you, or work toward a structured bachelor of arts degree or comprehensive certificate that involve additional coursework. Share Your Curiosity at TMI!
About course fees: all prices displayed include Tuition and the Administrative fee.
Leaders of another course, and anyone else wishing to register by phone, should call (514) 935-9585 to register.