ANKARA, Türkiye — Glen Frederic Matheson, an Armenian-American attorney with deep ancestral ties to the Ottoman Empire, has recently been granted Turkish citizenship, adopting the name “Murat” as a nod to his heritage. His lineage traces back to his great-grandfather, Mihran Mesropyan, an esteemed officer and chief architect in the empire.
The process of acquiring Turkish citizenship, which was completed last month, was backed by Ali Sahin, a deputy from Türkiye’s Justice and Development (AK) party. Sahin, who also chairs the Turkish Delegation of the Latin America and Caribbean Parliament, was instrumental in facilitating Matheson’s citizenship application.
Mesropyan’s historical significance includes his role in the Gallipoli Campaign during World War I, a devastating confrontation where tens of thousands lost their lives. Mesropyan, who was captured in Syria following the campaign, was later recognized with a state honor for his valiant services.
After the war, Mesropyan relocated to the United States where he continued his architectural pursuits, leaving a significant imprint on Washington, D.C.’s skyline. His legacy played a crucial role in Matheson’s decision to reconnect with his ancestral roots and pursue Turkish nationality.
Sahin, who came to know Matheson through a shared academic acquaintance, recalled the emotional moment when Matheson was officially granted citizenship. “Today is the happiest day of my life,” Matheson had expressed, a sentiment that Sahin found greatly moving and indicative of the profound connections many feel toward their ancestral lands.
Matheson’s newly adopted Turkish identity reflects a broader phenomenon of individuals with ancestral ties to the Ottoman Empire or Anatolia seeking to reclaim a connection with Türkiye. According to Sahin, approximately 20 million people of Anatolian descent have migrated to Latin America and the Caribbean. These individuals, often referred to as “Los Turcos” or “El Turco,” frequently maintain a strong identification with their roots.
Türkiye has actively engaged in cultural and diplomatic efforts to strengthen bonds with these diaspora communities, fostering a sense of unity and shared heritage. The initiatives are part of a broader strategy to nurture relationships with descendants of the Ottoman Empire around the globe.
Through these endeavors, Türkiye aims to not only preserve historical and cultural connections but also to foster a greater understanding and appreciation of its rich heritage on an international scale.
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