Recep Tayyip Erdogan was born on February 26, 1954, in Istanbul, Turkey. He grew up in a working-class neighborhood, where he learned the value of hard work and perseverance from a young age. As a child, Erdogan sold lemonade and sesame buns on the streets to help support his family. This entrepreneurial spirit would stay with him as he embarked on his path to becoming a prominent figure in Turkish politics.
Erdogan's political career began in the early 1990s when he became a member of the Welfare Party. In 1994, he was elected as the Mayor of Istanbul, a position he held for four years. During his time as mayor, Erdogan implemented several initiatives to improve the city's infrastructure and public services, gaining a reputation as a competent and forward-thinking leader.
In 2002, Erdogan co-founded the Justice and Development Party (AKP) and was elected as the party's leader. The AKP went on to win the parliamentary elections later that year, with Erdogan becoming the Prime Minister of Turkey. Over the next decade, Erdogan implemented various political and economic reforms that helped to modernize Turkey and improve its global standing.
In 2014, Erdogan made history by becoming the 12th President of Turkey, succeeding Abdullah Gul. As President, Erdogan continued to push for political and social reforms, while also facing criticism for his strong-handed approach to governance. Despite facing opposition from various groups, Erdogan has remained a dominant figure in Turkish politics, with many supporters praising his leadership style and vision for the country's future.
Outside of his political career, Erdogan is a devoted family man. He has been married to his wife, Emine Erdogan, for several decades, and together they have raised four children. Despite the demands of his position, Erdogan has always made time for his family, often citing their support as a source of strength and inspiration in his work.
Recep Tayyip Erdogan's legacy in Turkish politics is a complex and multifaceted one. While he is credited with modernizing the country and improving its economy, Erdogan has also been criticized for his authoritarian tendencies and his crackdown on political dissent. As he continues to navigate the challenges of governing a diverse and rapidly changing nation, Erdogan remains a polarizing figure both at home and abroad.
His meetings with world leaders, including former President Barack Obama, have highlighted his role on the global stage and the impact of his policies on international relations. As Turkey's political landscape continues to evolve, Erdogan's influence and legacy will be closely watched by observers around the world.