Turkey: U.S. Recognition and Diplomatic Relations since 1776

Summary

U.S. diplomatic interaction with Turkey dates back to the days when Turkey was known as the Ottoman Empire. After they established diplomatic relations in 1831, the states maintained a diplomatic relationship until U.S. entry into World War I on April 20, 1917. After World War I, the Ottoman Empire dissolved, and in its place arose the modern state of Turkey, with which the United States reestablished relations in 1927.

Modern Flag of Turkey

Recognition

Mutual Recognition, 1830

The first formal act of diplomatic engagement and recognition between the Ottoman Empire (Turkey) and the United States, both long established states, occurred on February 11, 1830, when a U.S. negotiating team comprised of Captain James Biddle, David Offley, and Charles Rhind presented their credentials to the Turkish Minister of Foreign Affairs. Biddle, Offley, and Rhind negotiated a treaty of navigation and commerce between the United States and Turkey.

Diplomatic Relations

Establishment of Diplomatic Relations and the American Legation in the Ottoman Empire, 1831

Diplomatic relations and the American Legation at Constantinople (Istanbul) were established on September 13, 1831, when David Porter presented his credentials as Charges d’Affaires.

Elevation of American Legation to Embassy Status, 1906

The American Legation was elevated to Embassy status on June 18, 1906, when John G. A. Leishman presented his credentials as the Ambassador on October 5, 1906.

Diplomatic Relations Severed, 1917

Turkey severed diplomatic relations with the United States on April 20, 1917, after the United States declared war against Germany on April 4, 1917.

Diplomatic Relations Reestablished, 1927

The United States and Turkey reestablished relations on February 17, 1927, after an exchange of notes in Angora, Turkey.

Resources

Where this page came from

This page was imported from U.S. Department of State, Office of the Historian. A Guide to the United States' History of Recognition, Diplomatic, and Consular Relations, by Country, since 1776, published by the Office of the Historian of the U.S. Department of State: a work of the United States government, in the public domain.

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