What is are turkish people caucasian?

It's complicated and depends on how "Caucasian" is defined.

• Historically and Anthropologically: Traditionally, "Caucasian" was used in physical anthropology to describe a broad grouping of human beings based on skeletal measurements and perceived physical characteristics. Under this definition, which is now largely considered outdated and problematic due to its association with scientific racism, many Turkish people would have been classified as Caucasian, particularly those from certain regions of Turkey. This usage is now largely discredited in scientific circles.

• Geographically: The term "Caucasian" also refers to the Caucasus region, a geographical area between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. While Turkey borders this region, being geographically close doesn't automatically make people "Caucasian" in the sense of belonging to a specific ethnic group from that region.

• Genetically: Genetic studies show that the genetic makeup of Turkish people is diverse, reflecting their history as a crossroads of migrations and empires. There's a mix of genes from Central Asia, the Middle East, and the Balkans, among others. Therefore, a simple "yes" or "no" answer based on genetics is not accurate.

• Modern Usage and Self-Identification: In contemporary usage, particularly in the United States, "Caucasian" is often used as a synonym for "white." Whether Turkish people identify as "white" varies depending on individual self-perception and the context. However, this classification is often based on appearance and social constructs rather than strict ancestry or genetics.

In summary, the answer to the question is nuanced. Historically, some Turkish people might have been considered "Caucasian" under outdated anthropological classifications. Genetically, they are a mix of different populations. Modern usage of "Caucasian" is more about social and racial identity.