The symbol of Turkey is the crescent and star.
While a turkey (the bird) is often associated with the country in English-speaking cultures due to a potential historical misidentification, the national symbol is definitively the crescent and star. This emblem is prominently featured on the Turkish flag and represents the nation's identity.
History of the Crescent and Star
- The crescent and star originated with the Ottoman flag (1844–1923).
- Following the abolition of the Sultanate in 1922, the Ottoman coat of arms fell out of use.
- The crescent and star became Turkey's de facto national emblem.
- The current Turkish flag, based on the Ottoman flag, continues to display the crescent and star.
Therefore, when considering the official and national symbol, it's the crescent and star, not the bird, that represents Turkey.
