Hüsrev Gerede: The Atatürk Ally Who Landed in Samsun and Became a Diplomat

Hüsrev Gerede, the grandfather of photographer and actress Bennu Gerede, was a pivotal military and diplomatic figure during Turkey's War of Independence and the establishment of the Republic. Born in Edirne in 1886, Gerede began his military career early, serving in the Ottoman army during the Balkan Wars and World War I, gaining extensive experience on the front lines.

His most significant contribution came during the National Struggle. Gerede was part of Mustafa Kemal Pasha's staff, boarding the Bandırma Vapur for the historic landing in Samsun on May 19, 1919. He was instrumental in intelligence and propaganda efforts, directly contributing to the drafting of the Havza Circular and Amasya Circular, early sparks of the War of Independence. He also served as Chief Secretary of the "Heyet-i Temsiliye" (Representative Committee) during the Erzurum and Sivas Congresses and was an active participant in the acceptance of the National Pact (Misak-ı Millî) as a Trabzon deputy in the last Ottoman Parliament.

Following the occupation of Istanbul, Gerede moved to Ankara and continued his work as a deputy in the Grand National Assembly of Turkey. In the Republican era, he transitioned to a diplomatic career, representing Turkey with distinction in major world capitals including Budapest, Sofia, Tehran, Tokyo, Berlin, and Rio de Janeiro. He also served as a parliamentary deputy for Urfa and Sivas at different times.

Gerede's intellectual contributions include writing books on Iran, Japan, and Germany, based on his observations during his diplomatic postings. He also penned memoirs about Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, offering historical insights. The statesman and soldier passed away in Istanbul on March 20, 1962, after suffering a heart attack, and was laid to rest at Edirnekapı Martyrs' Cemetery.