Ya Istiklal Ya Olum

About Ya İstiklal Ya Ölüm — Background & Historical Significance

Ya İstiklal Ya Ölüm (“Either Independence or Death”) is a powerful Turkish historical drama mini-series that vividly recreates one of the most pivotal moments in Turkey’s national history — the six-week period between the occupation of Istanbul by the Allied Powers on 16 March 1920 and the opening of the First Grand National Assembly in Ankara on 23 April 1920. TheTVDB+2Habertürk+2

Historical Context & Purpose

• The series was made to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Turkish War of Independence, specifically focusing on the critical early phase of the Turkish National Struggle. Ya İstiklal Ya Ölüm+1

• It highlights the Kuva-yi Milliye movement, a grassroots resistance force that formed under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Pasha, showing how ordinary citizens, political leaders, and secret nationalists came together during a moment of national crisis.

• The show also dramatizes the dissolution of the Ottoman Parliament (Meclis-i Mebusan) in Istanbul, alongside the establishment of a new independent Turkish parliament in Ankara — capturing both the political and moral stakes of the time. Ya İstiklal Ya Ölüm+1

Production & Cinematic Approach

• Ya İstiklal Ya Ölüm is produced by Kirli Kedi & Atlantis Yapım and directed by Yasin Uslu. Parlak Projeler+2Ya İstiklal Ya Ölüm+2

• The screenplay was written by Funda Çetin, who carefully balanced historical facts with dramatic storytelling

• Technically, the production is very ambitious: Parlak Projeler handled 3D modeling for villages, ships, and assembly scenes. For instance, the first Grand National Assembly is recreated in CGI, and hundreds of extras are digitally multiplied to depict large historical crowds.

• The VFX work is particularly notable, especially in scenes showing British naval ships and the occupation forces.

Key Cast & Characters

The drama features a very strong ensemble cast, portraying both historical figures and fictionalized heroes:

• İlker Kızmaz plays Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the iconic leader of the independence movement.

• Birkan Sokullu appears as Topkapılı Mehmet, a character deeply involved in resistance activities.

• Dolunay Soysert portrays Halide Edip, a significant literary and patriotic figure.

• Osman Sonant as Ali Fuat Paşa and Mehmet Özgür as Mehmet Akif add to the historical realism.

• Melis Sezen is cast in a leading female role, bringing strong emotional weight to the story.

Historical Accuracy & Scholarly Input

• The show enlisted academics and historians to ensure historical authenticity. For example, Prof. Dr. Ali Satan from Marmara University served as a historical consultant. Aydınlık E-Gazete

• According to historians, the series strongly reflects real events, from political maneuverings to the atmosphere of Istanbul under foreign occupation.

• Despite being a drama, the producers made a clear effort to root the narrative in documented history, including diplomatic tensions and the personal sacrifices of Turkish patriots. Ya İstiklal Ya Ölüm

Themes & Messages

• Patriotism & Sacrifice: The series underscores how ordinary people and leaders risked everything for the concept of independence.

• Unity in Crisis: It shows how diverse social, political, and intellectual forces in Turkey came together under a shared national struggle.

• Political Awakening: The drama illustrates how the idea of a national parliament (TBMM) emerged as a real, viable alternative to the occupied Ottoman system.

• Historical Reflection: By dramatizing the events of 1920, the show encourages viewers to reflect on Turkey’s foundation and the cost of national sovereignty.

Broadcast & Reception

• The series aired on TRT 1, Türkiye’s national broadcaster.

• It originally ran in 2020, from 16 March to 20 April, covering 12 episodes.

• While it ended after a single season, many view it as a focused, high-impact mini-series rather than a long-running show.

• The drama generated discussion and some controversy: for example, debates about historical depiction and dramatization have been published in media commentary.

Why This Drama Matters

• Cultural Significance: It revives a defining moment in Turkish history — not just for historians, but for a modern audience — reminding them of the founding spirit of the republic.

• Educational Value: The series works as a creative but informative medium to teach people about the Turkish National Struggle, making history accessible.

• Artistic Ambition: With its VFX, realistic sets, and strong cast, the show bridges cinematic quality and educational storytelling.

• Commemorative Purpose: Released on the centennial of the historic events, the drama pays tribute to the sacrifices and vision of early Turkish nationalists.