Turkey has a vast and well documented history. There are artifacts dating back 12,000 years ago. It played a large role in both the Roman and Byzantine Empires. In the Byzantine Empire, Turkey was home to the capital which is modern day Istanbul, which at the time was known as Constantinople, named after its founder Constantine the Great. It also served as the hub for the Ottoman Empire, which reigned from the 14th century to the early 20th century. In modern times, Turkey still has a large role in the world as it is seen as the gateway between Europe and the Middle east.
Before it was part of the Roman Empire, Turkey, or Anitolia as it was known back then, was a part of many powerful empires, most notably the Hittites. It was also under Persian control for a large portion of its history with a large amount of Greek influence due to its close proximity to Greece.
Turkey played a large part in the Roman Empire as once it was incorporated it was invaluable due to its rich land and resources. It also played a vital role in the early church due to its proxomity due to it being along to the road from Jerusalem to Rome.
Turkey served as the hub for the Byzantine Empire, Constantinople, now Istanbul, served as the capital until its fall. The Byzantine empire also served as the home of the Eastern Orthodox Church.
Turkey also played a large role in the Ottoman Empire as well, serving as its hub since the fall of Constantinople