Turkey: Empire of Erdogan

Season 1

Recep Tayyip Erdogan has grown into a political giant, reshaping Turkey more than any leader in recent times. This fascinating political documentary charts his rise from humble roots to a powerful, controversial ruler. How did he reach such heady heights, what methods has he used to quell dissent, what controversies have dogged his regime and how far is he willing to go to hang onto power?

20232 episodes

TV-14

Documentary

Subscribe to BBC Select for $5.99/month

Episode number
Newest episodes
Available to watch

S1 E1 - Rise To Power
May 8, 2023
59min
16+
Recep Tayyip Erdogan is one of the most powerful rulers in Turkish history. But where did he come from? This fascinating documentary charts his rise from the popular mayor of Istanbul to a period in prison and banishment from political life. He soon reversed this ban and became a pioneering Prime Minister. But after 10 years of rule, a massive protest movement threatened to topple his government.
Subscribe to BBC Select for $5.99/month
S1 E2 - Facing Dissent
May 8, 2023
59min
16+
After a decade in office Erdogan, once a popular ruler in Turkey, now faced a massive protest movement, coupled with a corruption scandal. This compelling political documentary looks at how Erdogan quashed dissent and consolidated his power, eventually becoming President. But soon a violent coup would put his life in danger. How would Erdogan survive this latest attempt to oust him from office.
Subscribe to BBC Select for $5.99/month