Hatay facts for kids

Hatay is a city located in the southern part of Turkey. It sits right on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, which is a large body of water. To its south and east, Hatay shares a border with the country of Syria.

Long ago, this city was known by a different name: Antioch. It became part of Turkey in the year 1939. Before that, from 1938 to 1939, Hatay was actually an independent area called the Hatay State.

History of Hatay's Independence

Hatay has a very interesting history, especially regarding its independence. For a short time, it was its own state before joining Turkey.

Becoming the Hatay State

From 1938 to 1939, Hatay was known as the Hatay State. This means it was an independent area, making its own rules and decisions. It was a special time for the region.

Joining Turkey

After being independent for about a year, Hatay joined Turkey in 1939. This was a big change for the people living there. It meant Hatay became a province, or region, within Turkey.

Stamps from the Hatay State

During the time Hatay was an independent state, it even issued its own postage stamps! These stamps are now historical items, showing a unique part of Hatay's past.

Images for kids

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  Ethnic groups in the Balkans and Asia Minor, early 20th Century, Historical Atlas, 1911

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  Turkish borders according to the Treaty of Lausanne, 1923

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  Protests in Damascus in 1939 by women demonstrators against the secession of the Sanjak of Alexandretta, and its subsequent joining into Turkey as the Hatay Province. One of the signs reads: "Our blood is sacrificed for the Syrian Arab Sanjak."

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  Castle ruins at Bağras in Hatay

See also

In Spanish: Provincia de Hatay para niños