What Happened?
The Ottoman Empire addressed original problems with original solutions. Its success is evident because it was built not through imitation but by creating and constructing anew. We can compare the old state to a willow tree that grew out of its native soil. Like all living things, it eventually died because reforms were not undertaken. In its place, a laurel tree from France’s Corsica was planted—even though there were plenty of other tree species to choose from. The laurel did not thrive outside coastal areas, and the people did not understand its nature or ways. Those who planted the laurel tree were perhaps well-intentioned, aiming to catch up with the wave of nationalism in Europe. Nationalism did indeed provide an excellent foundation for identity-building. Imported laurels prevented the soil from remaining barren, but better alternatives could have been found.

What Should We Do?
Replanting the Ottoman willow would not suffice, as better trees have since been cultivated in its place. Olive trees, which thrive in the surrounding regions, could be planted instead. Yet the best choice would be a tree suited to the country’s unique soil. Better than a willow is a pine tree, which can grow anywhere in this geography. Is there an even better tree? Certainly—the tree of culture. While the analogy might stop with the pine tree, using our intellect could lead to cultivating the tree of humanity. The fruits of the tree of humanity do not even require soil; they can flourish on other planets if necessary.
How Will Turkey Recognize Its Soil and Plant Accordingly?
Can Turkey abandon imported ideologies and imitative approaches from Europe? Can a country that has shaped its identity around being Europe’s doorkeeper, either as a migrant laborer or a refugee gatekeeper, truly cultivate its own soil? How can a caretaker who has forsaken their own soil and crops be persuaded to engage in authentic identity-building? Let us speak about this in terms of saving future generations.
A Close Model Should Be Preferred
A person unable to create their own identity will resort to adopting or imitating a model. At the very least, a close example—preferably one that was once successful in this land—should be chosen. The Ottoman identity is significant because it served as an overarching supra-identity that had not existed before. When close examples such as the Ottoman Empire, the Eastern Roman Empire, the Abbasids, the Mughals, or even Russia exist, aspiring to emulate France’s First Republic might not be a fruitful approach.

What Does the Nearby Model Tell Us?
The Ottoman example illustrates that the geography demands strong state organization. The region does not require extraordinary efforts—only correct actions. What is truly extraordinary is the effort to grow an impossible laurel tree in this land. Ultimately, the laurel on Napoleon’s head does nothing for Palestine. This land does not have fond memories of Napoleon or France. First, however, we must understand the purpose of each tree, move away from caretaking, and return to entrepreneurship. Caretaking itself is not inherently bad—there is no shame in honest labor. What is problematic is being a caretaker who imagines themselves as Napoleon.
