Marash was occupied by both English and French military respectively after the Armistice of Mudros signed on 30 October 1918. Trying to establish their space of influence in Chukurova and the Southern Anatolia, the French committed many atrocities in Marash and in the region. Because of French invaders’ and Armenians’ increasing pressures, a long and bloody struggle took place in Marash.
Victory in Marash struggle was won by the Turks. In this victory, Marash city folk played the most important part, while Defense of Rights organizations led by Mustafa Kemal Pasha and surrounding peoples provided important helps. Heyet-I Temsiliye founded in Sivas Congress and led by Mustafa Kemal Pasha worked very hard to win the victory. Surrounding villages helped women and kids of the city and participated the fighting in Marash. As a psychological warfare, meetings, demonstrations and protestations against the French occupation of the city were important. Foods and Money were sent to Marash. Women took place in bloody struggle against the French occupation, too.
