Amdi Giraybay Crimean Tatar poet, historian Date of Birth: 14.02.1901

1. Early Life and Education
2. Literary Achievements
3. Political Involvement and Education in Turkey
4. Return and Fate
5. Legacy

Early Life and Education

Amdi Giraybay, born Abdulfatat Ljatifov, emerged from the village of Yeni-Kale into a family of Islamic theologians. After completing primary school in Karasubazar, he pursued his education at the Rushdie secondary school in Simferopol. In 1921, he enrolled in the preparatory faculty of the Crimean State University, but financial constraints forced him to withdraw prematurely. Seeking employment, he worked in the People's Commissariat of Education (Narkomnats).

Literary Achievements

Between 1918 and 1923, Giraybay's pen surged with creativity, producing some of his most celebrated poetic works. These included "Elyak Oldy Yigitler" ("Youths Perished"), "Yigitke" ("To the Youth"), "Yash Tatarlargha" ("To the Young Tatars"), and "Talaq" ("Divorce").

Political Involvement and Education in Turkey

With the support of prominent Crimean political figure Veli Ibrahimov, Giraybay embarked on a journey to Turkey in 1923. Enrolling in Istanbul University's Faculty of Philosophy, he embarked on a dissertation titled "The History of Crimea," expounding on the ideals of Panturkism.

Return and Fate

Returning to Crimea in 1926, Giraybay found himself entangled in the political turmoil surrounding the Crimean Tatar nationalist party, Milli-Firka. Accused of espionage and nationalism, he was arrested in 1928. After a trial, he was sentenced to death by the Judicial Collegium of the OGPU on December 17, 1928. On September 13, 1930, Giraybay was executed at the Butyrka prison. Posthumously, he was rehabilitated in 1991.

Legacy

Amdi Giraybay's literary legacy includes a testament to his poetic prowess and unwavering spirit. His works continue to resonate with the Crimean Tatar people, preserving their cultural heritage and inspiring their struggle for self-determination.