Social clubs containing librairies, cultural and sports facilities, discotheques give young people the chance to meet. But in spite of their number the Jews have distinguished themselves. There are several Jewish professors teaching at the universities of Istanbul and Ankara, and many Turkish Jews are prominent in business, industry and the liberal professions. 1992 marks the five hundreth anniversary of this most gracious welcome of Sephardim to Turkish lands. Turkish Jews felt it was both fitting and proper to launch an extensive celebration in Turkey, in the United States and in Europe.
Jewish history is full of sad events which are marked by commemorations and memorial services.
But now there was a major event to celebrate. To celebrate both the 500th anniversary of the welcoming of the Sephardic Jews to the Ottoman Empire and the five centuries of continous and peaceful life in Turkey. The Quincentennial Foundation was established in 1989 by a group of 113 Turkish citizens, Jews and Moslems alike. The Foundation embarked on a very ambitious program as befits the greatness of the occasion. What Turkish Jews lack in numbers they make up in enthousiasm and commitment.