Kizilbash-Alevis in Ottoman Anatolia: Sufism, Politics and Community

The Kizilbash, also known as Alevis, were crucial players in the Ottoman-Safavid conflict and constitute the second-largest faith community in modern Turkey. This first comprehensive socio-political history of the Kizilbash/Alevi communities uses a newly surfaced corpus of sources to offer fresh answers to their origins and evolution.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 400 pages
\n Publication date: 31 August 2021
\n Publisher: Edinburgh University Press
\n

The Kizilbash, also known as Alevis, played a pivotal role in the Ottoman-Safavid conflict that shaped the early modern Middle East. Today, they constitute the second-largest faith community in modern Turkey, with smaller pockets of related groups in the Balkans. However, many aspects of their history remain relatively unknown or unexplored. In this groundbreaking socio-political history, the Kizilbash/Alevi communities are explored for the first time using a newly discovered corpus of sources generated within their milieu. This comprehensive account offers fresh insights into their origins and evolution, from a revolutionary movement to an inward-looking religious order.

The Kizilbash, a diverse group with roots in Anatolia and the Balkans, emerged as a significant force during the early modern period. Their presence in the region was facilitated by their ability to navigate between different political and religious contexts, making them a valuable asset to both the Ottoman Empire and Safavid Persia. However, their allegiance to either side often shifted depending on the circumstances, leading to conflicts and tensions within their communities.

One of the most notable aspects of the Kizilbash history is their involvement in the Ottoman-Safavid conflict. The Kizilbash played a crucial role in the battles between these two powers, often siding with the Ottomans against the Safavids. This alliance was driven by a shared desire for stability and protection against the threat of Persian expansionism. However, the Kizilbash also faced discrimination and persecution from both sides, as they were perceived as traitors by the Ottomans and as heretics by the Safavids.

Despite these challenges, the Kizilbash communities managed to survive and thrive. They developed a unique religious and cultural identity that blended elements of Islam, Christianity, and indigenous beliefs. Their communities were characterized by a strong sense of community and a shared sense of purpose, which helped them to weather the storms of conflict and persecution.

In addition to their involvement in the Ottoman-Safavid conflict, the Kizilbash also played a significant role in the broader political and social landscape of the early modern Middle East. They were known for their skill in diplomacy and their ability to navigate the complex web of alliances and rivalries that characterized the region. They also contributed to the development of literature, art, and music, which helped to preserve their cultural heritage and identity.

Despite their contributions to the region, the Kizilbash communities faced significant challenges in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They were subjected to forced conversion to Islam by the Ottoman Empire, which led to a decline in their religious and cultural practices. They also faced discrimination and marginalization by the Turkish state, which saw them as a threat to national identity and stability.

In response to these challenges, the Kizilbash communities began to organize and advocate for their rights and freedoms. They formed political parties and organizations, and they engaged in peaceful protests and demonstrations to raise awareness about their plight. These efforts eventually led to the recognition of their rights and the establishment of a small but significant minority group within the Turkish state.

Today, the Kizilbash communities are known as Alevis and constitute the second-largest faith community in modern Turkey. They continue to practice their unique religious and cultural traditions, and they play an important role in the broader social and political landscape of the country. Despite the challenges they have faced, the Kizilbash communities remain a vibrant and dynamic force in the Middle East.

In conclusion, the Kizilbash history is a complex and multifaceted tale that reflects the broader political and social dynamics of the early modern Middle East. From their involvement in the Ottoman-Safavid conflict to their contributions to literature, art, and music, the Kizilbash communities have played a significant role in shaping the region's cultural and religious heritage. Despite the challenges they have faced, the Kizilbash communities have remained a vibrant and dynamic force, and their story continues to be an important part of the broader narrative of the Middle East.

\n Weight: 610g\n
Dimension: 154 x 234 x 27 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781474432696\n \n