young [turk]
Plural
Young Turks
1
a young member of a political party, organization, etc., who seeks to make changes in a previous establishment or system
The idiom "Young Turk" originated from a political reform movement within the late Ottoman Empire in the early 20th century. The movement, known as the Committee of Union and Progress (CUP), was composed of a group of young, nationalist, and reform-minded individuals who sought to modernize the empire and address its perceived decline. They came to be known as the "Young Turks" due to their relatively young age and revolutionary ideas. The movement played a significant role in the Young Turk Revolution of 1908, which led to the establishment of a constitutional government in the Ottoman Empire. It is often used in political discussions to refer to young reformers challenging traditional systems and advocating for social or political transformation.
- The young activist is seen as a modern-day Young Turk, leading the movement for social justice.
- Many young professionals aspire to be the Young Turks of their industries, challenging conventions and pushing for innovation.
- The political landscape is evolving as a new generation of Young Turks emerges, demanding transformative change.
- The Young Turks of the 1960s were instrumental in shaping the civil rights movement.
- During their time in office, the Young Turk politicians implemented progressive policies that transformed the country.
2
a member of one or more of the insurgent groups in Turkey in the late 19th century who rebelled against the absolutism of Ottoman rule