Anatolian Turks vs. Istanbul Turks: Cultural and Linguistic Differences

Introduction

With decades of nationalistic indoctrination, most Turkish citizens self-identify as Turks regardless of their ethnic background. However, there are subtle cultural and linguistic differences between those from Anatolia, the homeland of the Turks, and those from Istanbul or other parts of Turkey. Understanding these differences is crucial for appreciating the diverse aspects of Turkish culture and language.

Cultural and Ethnic Differences

In Turkey, ethnic diversity plays a significant role. Besides the Turks, major non-Turkish groups like the Kurds, Arabs, Laz, and Georgians make up a part of the country's rich cultural tapestry. These groups often express double identities, blending their cultural and ethnic backgrounds with the mainstream Turkish identity.

For instance, my mother, who hails from Amasya in Anatolia but has lived in Istanbul for 30 years, still speaks Turkish with a local Amasya accent. Yet, some family members like my aunts have fully adapted to the Istanbul accent. My college classmate from Rize, however, maintained his Rize accent during his time in Istanbul, highlighting the difficulty in shifting accents.

Linguistic Differences

While ethnically there is no difference, linguistic variations exist. Istanbul Turkish is often considered the formal language taught in schools and used in media. However, this moniker is misleading; Istanbul is home to a wide range of dialects brought by people who have moved to the city in the past 50 years. The term "Istanbul Turkish" is primarily used to refer to the standardized spelling used in media and literature, which differs from the colloquial usage in real life.

Real-life examples of Istanbul Turkish reveal a blend of regionalisms, contractions, and slang words that reflect the city's diverse population. In contrast, Anatolian Turkish is not a single unified dialect; each city within Anatolia has its own unique flavor. For instance, someone from Tunceli speaks differently from someone from Adyaman, adding to the linguistic diversity of the region.

Impact on Language Standardization

The official standardized spelling of Turkish, dubbed "Istanbul Turkish," is used in media and education. However, when people converse in daily life, they often use dialects and regional variations that differ from the standardized form. This reflects the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the Turkish language.

Moreover, Anatolian regions, like Central Anatolia, have significant "diasporas" whose populations can exceed the local town sizes. Despite this, the core cultural and linguistic identity remains strong, with local accents persisting in many cases.

Conclusion

Anatolian Turks and Istanbul Turks, while sharing a common language, exhibit distinct cultural and linguistic differences shaped by their unique histories and geographical locations. Understanding these nuances enriches our appreciation of the diverse and vibrant tapestry that is Turkish culture and language.

Keywords: Anatolian Turks, Istanbul Turks, Turkish Language