Journal of General Turkish History Research

Abstract

With its strong strategic location, rich economic resources and colorful nature, Azerbaijan has been a battleground for great powers and civilizations throughout history. From early times, Turkish communities such as the Sabirs, Khazars and Huns shaped the social and cultural structure of the region. Intense Turkish migrations, which began during the Seljuk period, accelerated the Turkification process of Azerbaijan and formed the basis of today’s Azerbaijani identity. Azerbaijan has been under the rule of many states throughout its history. However, the 18th century saw an important turning point in Azerbaijani history with the emergence of khanates, a different form of government. With the weakening of the central authority during the Safavid and Afshar periods, Azerbaijani lands came under the control of various Turkish khanates. After the death of Nadir Shah Afshar in the early 18th century, the khans in the region declared their independence. Azerbaijani Khanates are examined in two parts according to their geographical location and political life. The khanates located south of the Aras River are called the South Azerbaijan Khanates, while the khanates located north of the River are called the North Azerbaijan Khanates. Important khanates established in South Azerbaijan are the Tabriz, Hoy, Karadagh, Maragha and Urmia Khanates. The important khanates established in Northern Azerbaijan are; Ganja, Baku, Sheki, Shirvan, Karabakh and Quba Khanates. In the 18th century, the Southern Azerbaijan Khanates played a critical role in the historical and political development of the region. This period is considered as an important transition period in the history of Azerbaijan. The independence of the Southern Azerbaijan Khanates was short-lived, and these Khanates were forced to recognize Iranian sovereignty again. The Northern Azerbaijan Khanates were in constant struggle with each other and formed various alliances against external threats. Towards the end of the 18th century, the Russian Empire began to target the Khanates by following a policy of expansion in the Caucasus. The Northern Azerbaijan Khanates in the 18th century greatly influenced the political and military structure of the region. The Khanates tried to maintain their existence under the pressure of great powers such as the Ottoman Empire, Iran and Russia, but were annexed by Russia in the early 19th century and lost their political existence. The Khanate period in Azerbaijan was an important stage in the historical development of the country. The Khanates influenced the political, economic and cultural structure of Azerbaijan, but could not maintain their existence for a long time due to regional fragmentation. The end of this period with the Russian dominance in the Caucasus was also an important turning point in the modern history of Azerbaijan.
In this article; The Turkish Khanates that declared their independence in Azerbaijan in the 18th century will be researched and written in the administrative, economic and cultural context.