In the aftermath of World War I, the Treaty of Sevres granted Greece control over Smyrna, prompting Greek ambitions along the Aegean coast. However, the Turkish resistance grew strong under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal, later known as Kemal Atatürk, who was determined to oppose Greek expansionism, disregarding the treaty's terms.

As the Greek army advanced, Atatürk led a fierce counteroffensive, ultimately forcing them back to Smyrna. His actions culminated in a brutal massacre of Greek forces, reflecting a wider historical pattern of ethnic violence during this tumultuous period, as Turkish leaders took decisive and ruthless measures against their adversaries.