Born in Salonica in 1881 to a family of Ottoman officials and a Turkish mother. Initially attended religious school, later transferred to secular Semsi Efendi School. Graduated from Ottoman Military Academy in 1905
Born in 1881 in Salonica to a middle-class Ottoman family. Received traditional Islamic education before transferring to modern Şemsi Efendi school. Father's death at age eight led to family's move to uncle's farm. Military education lasted thirteen years, earning nickname "Mustafa Kemal"
Born in Salonica (Thessaloniki) around 1881 to a middle-class Muslim family. Graduated from military schools including War College in Istanbul. Fought in Libya against Italians in 1911-1912. Distinguished himself in Gallipoli campaign in 1915