| Known by his nickname Kemal, which means perfection, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk founded the Republic of Turkey, independent of Ottoman rule, in 1923. He served as its first president from 1923 until his death in 1938. Atatürk initiated expansive reforms, such as abolishing polygamy and granting new rights for women. He also abolished corruption, improved public education, and modernized industries. |