Lütfi Kırdar

Mehmet L%C3%BCtfi K%C4%B1rdar

Lütfi Kırdar (1887 – 17 February 1961) was a prominent Turkish physician, politician, and statesman. He served as the Governor of Istanbul and later as the Minister of Health in Turkey. Kırdar played a significant role in the modernization of Istanbul and the development of Turkey's healthcare system.

Early Life and Education

Lütfi Kırdar was born in 1887 in Kirkuk, which was then part of the Ottoman Empire. He completed his primary and secondary education in Kirkuk before moving to Istanbul for higher education. Kırdar graduated from the Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine in 1917.

Medical Career

After completing his medical education, Kırdar worked as a physician in various hospitals in Istanbul. He specialized in internal medicine and became known for his contributions to the field. Kırdar also served as a lecturer at Istanbul University, where he trained many future Turkish physicians.

Political Career

Lütfi Kırdar's political career began in the early 1930s when he was appointed as the Governor of Manisa. His successful tenure in Manisa led to his appointment as the Governor of Istanbul in 1938. During his time as governor, Kırdar initiated numerous urban development projects, including the construction of new roads, parks, and public buildings. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine and the Istanbul Technical University.

In 1942, Kırdar was appointed as the Minister of Health in the Turkish government. In this role, he focused on improving the country's healthcare infrastructure and services. He introduced several reforms aimed at increasing access to medical care and modernizing hospitals.

Legacy

Lütfi Kırdar is remembered for his significant contributions to the modernization of Istanbul and the development of Turkey's healthcare system. The Lütfi Kırdar Convention and Exhibition Center in Istanbul is named in his honor, reflecting his lasting impact on the city.

Death

Lütfi Kırdar passed away on 17 February 1961. He is buried in Istanbul, where his legacy continues to be celebrated.

See Also

• Istanbul University
• Istanbul Technical University
• Ministry of Health (Turkey)
• Governors of Istanbul