Relations between the Government and the Opposition in the Last Three Years of the Democratic Party Period

This study examines the Democratic Party period, one of the most discussed subjects in the history of Turkey and presents a descriptive account and definition of the relationship between the government and the opposition in the last three years of the 1950s. The 1946 elections were a turning point in Turkish political history. With this election Turkey passed on to the multiparty system. The RPP's victory was under suspicion since the 146 election was not fair and honest. In the 1950 elections, however, the DP received the majority of the seats in the parliament. In both their relations with the opposition and their respect for the opinions of the opposition, the Democrats, who were the flag of liberal democracy and political freedom, proved unable to meet the demands of the people. Economic problems experienced during the decade were added to repressive policies of the DP. The 1957 elections were held under the doubt of unfairness. The DP received the majority of seats. However, at this time there was a decrease in its votes.

Between 1957-60, the fear of getting rid of the government and also the possibility of a military intervention made the government more aggressive. Relations between the government and the opposition become harsh in the last three years of the decade. The main axis of the study is the themes settled in the relationship between the government and the opposition from 1957 to 1960.

(Approved by Assoc. Prof., Halil Berktay, Prof. Dr. Zafer Toprak, Prof. Dr. Sevket Pamuk)