101 years ago today, on March 3, 1924 (January 28, 1924), Turkey underwent modernizing reforms. On March 3, 1924, President Kemal was rapidly bringing Turkey into the 20th century and aligning it more closely with Western Europe. The new president of the Turkish Republic has persuaded his National Assembly to abolish the stereotypes of many of the country's religious and cultural traditions. Chief among them is the hereditary power held by Muslim leaders, the caliphate. Kemal also plans to outlaw religious institutions, polygamy, and clothing dating back to the Ottoman Empire. Kemal abolished sultanate rule in the fall of 1923. With his military victory against Greece, he gained almost full authority to initiate greater reforms in Turkey.