Turkish-American Relations (Book)

Oral Sander is an academic who has made significant contributions to the fields of international relations and political science in Türkiye. Sander, regarded as one of the pioneers of international relations theory in Türkiye, has left a lasting mark in his field through both his academic activities and his publications. Oral Sander’s book Türk-Amerikan İlişkileri examines the diplomatic, economic and military relations between Türkiye and the United States of America (USA) within a historical context. The book analyzes the formation process of the relations between the two countries, their key turning points and the impact of these relations on the international system. Sander comprehensively analyzes not only the national interests of Türkiye and the United States but also the issues on which they have frequently found themselves at odds, offering readers a comprehensive overview.

Türk-Amerikan İlişkileri

Book Content

Historical Development: Foundations of the Relationship

The book traces the historical roots of Turkish-American relations, exploring how they began and evolved over time. Although the origins of these relations extend back to the Ottoman Empire period, their main momentum emerged after the Second World War. Sander emphasizes that the Truman Doctrine and the Marshall Plan marked a turning point in Türkiye’s relations with the United States. In this context, Türkiye’s accession to the NATO alliance and its membership in the Council of Europe are central themes of the book.

The Cold War Era and Geopolitical Dynamics

Oral Sander highlights that the Cold War period was a defining phase in Turkish-American relations. While Türkiye became a crucial ally of the United States against the Soviet Union, it also assumed a strategically vital base role in line with American interests. The significance of the Incirlik Air Base and U.S. military assistance to Türkiye were foundational elements of relations during this era. However, Sander underscores how the Johnson Letter in the 1960s exposed crises, revealing the asymmetric nature of the relationship and mutual trust issues.

Economic and Military Cooperation

The book demonstrates that Turkish-American relations are not solely security-based but also encompass economic cooperation. Economic aid provided to Türkiye under the Marshall Plan and the U.S. contribution to Türkiye’s economic development policies are analyzed in detail. At the same time, Sander notes that the relationship has largely been military-oriented and that Türkiye has functioned as a frontline state for the United States. This dynamic has opened space for Türkiye’s foreign policy to pursue alternative alignments.

The Cyprus Issue and Tensions in the 1970s

The book dedicates substantial attention to the Cyprus Issue, one of the most significant crisis points in Turkish-American relations. Following the 1974 Cyprus Operation, the U.S. arms embargo imposed on Türkiye caused a deep rupture in bilateral relations. Sander points out that during this period Türkiye began to question its position within the Western alliance and moved toward a more independent foreign policy orientation.

The Post-Cold War Period

Oral Sander also examines how Turkish-American relations evolved after the end of the Cold War. In an era where the United States continued to assert its global leadership, Türkiye’s geopolitical position in the Middle East, the Balkans and the Caucasus gained renewed strategic importance. Sander emphasizes that during the Gulf War and especially after the 11 September attacks, Türkiye once again became a strategic partner for the United States.

Türk-Amerikan İlişkileri does not merely examine the historical ties between the two countries; it also illuminates the power dynamics and balance-seeking behaviors within the international system. Sander argues that the relationship has historically carried an asymmetric character, a condition that has at times created tensions for both parties. The book holds significant value for understanding the mutual interests of Türkiye and the United States and the impact of these interests on the international order. Oral Sander’s book Türk-Amerikan İlişkileri is recognized as a key source for explaining the historical development of Turkish-American relations and their place within the international system. The work offers not only a historical analysis but also a rich examination from the perspectives of diplomacy, power politics and international relations theory. This makes the book an essential guide for understanding the complexity and depth of Turkish-American relations.