Refik Saydam

Refik Saydam, Cebeci Asri Mezarlığı - 2023 Temmuz

İsmet İnönü ve Refik Saydam, 1939

Refik Saydam (4 September 1881 – 8 July 1942) was a prominent Turkish politician, medical doctor, and statesman who served as the 4th Prime Minister of Turkey from 25 January 1939 until his death on 8 July 1942. He was also a member of the Republican People's Party (CHP), which was founded by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey.

Early Life and Education

Refik Saydam was born in Istanbul, Ottoman Empire. He completed his primary and secondary education in Istanbul before pursuing a medical degree. Saydam graduated from the Military Medical School (Mekteb-i Tıbbiye-i Şahane) in 1905 and started his career in the Ottoman Army as a medical officer.

Career

After serving in various regions of the Ottoman Empire, including the Balkans and Yemen, Saydam gained significant experience in combatting infectious diseases, which later played a crucial role in his efforts to eradicate malaria in Turkey.

During the Turkish War of Independence, Saydam was a close associate of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and served as the Chief of the Health Services. His contributions to the war effort and public health were instrumental in the establishment of the Republic of Turkey.

Following the war, Saydam continued his work in public health and was appointed as the Minister of Health in the first cabinet of the Republic in 1923. He played a key role in the modernization of Turkey's healthcare system and the establishment of the Refik Saydam Hygiene Center in Ankara, which became a leading institution in public health research and training.

In 1939, following the death of Atatürk, Saydam was appointed as the Prime Minister of Turkey by President İsmet İnönü. His tenure was marked by efforts to maintain Turkey's neutrality during the early years of World War II. Saydam's government also continued the policies of modernization and secularization initiated by Atatürk, including reforms in education, health, and infrastructure.

Death and Legacy

Refik Saydam died in office on 8 July 1942. He is remembered as a dedicated public servant who contributed significantly to the foundation and development of the modern Turkish state. His efforts in public health, particularly in the fight against infectious diseases, left a lasting impact on Turkey's healthcare system.

See Also

• List of Prime Ministers of Turkey
• Republican People's Party
• History of Turkey
• Turkish War of Independence