The French Schools Issue in Turkish Press after Lausanne Peace Treaty (1923-24)

“The French schools issue” has risen when the French government sent a note to the Turkish government for re-negotiations on the subject after the peace treaty of Lausanne where it was settled to a conclusion This issue escalated when the French catholic missionary schools defied the Turkish government’s commandment and these schools were closed between February-April, 1924 The reason for the closure of these schools is the removal of religious symbols, especially the distinguishing mark of Catholicism, the cross This issue could be overcome by a formula devised and agreed upon by Turkey, France and Vatican in October 1924 The Turkish press has closely followed the proceedings and has tried to create a public influence on the French by supporting the Turkish government’s position In this study, primarily the historical background of the foreign school issue between the Tanzimat and republic period is investigated Furthermore, the approach of the governments and public opinion towards the “French schools issue” through news and comments in the Turkish press has been scrutinized