Inönü, Ismet

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Inönü, Ismet (1884–1973) Turkish statesman, president (1938–50) and prime minister (1923–24, 1925–37, 1961–65). Inönü was a leading figure in the Turkish nationalist movement and a formative influence on the development of the Turkish republic. He served as prime minister for most of Atatürk's presidency (1923–37) and succeeded him as president. Inönü's Republican People's Party lost the Republic's first free elections (1950). Following a military coup in 1960, Turkey's constitution was reformed and Inönü returned as prime minister.

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