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Historical Turkmen tribal confederation

The Aq Qoyunlu (Persian: __ _______, "White Sheep Turkomans") were a Turkmen tribal confederation that ruled parts of present-day Turkey, Iran, Iraq, and Syria from the late 14th century to the early 16th century. They are known for their conflicts with the Kara Koyunlu and the Ottoman Empire, as well as their role in the history of the Safavid dynasty.

History

The Aq Qoyunlu were originally a tribal confederation of Oghuz Turks who settled in the region of Diyarbakır in southeastern Anatolia. They rose to prominence under the leadership of Uzun Hasan, who expanded their territory significantly.

Rise to Power

The Aq Qoyunlu first gained prominence in the mid-14th century. Their rise was marked by the leadership of Uzun Hasan, who became the most notable ruler of the confederation. Under his rule, the Aq Qoyunlu expanded their territory to include large parts of Iran and Iraq.

Conflict with the Kara Koyunlu

The Aq Qoyunlu were in constant conflict with the Kara Koyunlu, another Turkmen confederation. The rivalry between these two groups was a significant aspect of the political landscape in the region during the 15th century.

Relations with the Ottomans

The Aq Qoyunlu also had complex relations with the Ottoman Empire. While initially maintaining a degree of cooperation, tensions eventually led to military confrontations. The most notable conflict was the Battle of Otlukbeli in 1473, where the Ottomans defeated the Aq Qoyunlu forces.

Decline and Fall

After the death of Uzun Hasan, the Aq Qoyunlu began to decline. Internal strife and external pressures, particularly from the rising Safavid dynasty, led to their eventual downfall. By the early 16th century, the Aq Qoyunlu were absorbed into the Safavid Empire.

Culture and Society

The Aq Qoyunlu were known for their patronage of the arts and architecture. They contributed to the cultural and architectural development of the regions they controlled, leaving behind a legacy that can still be seen today.

Architecture

The Aq Qoyunlu were responsible for several architectural projects, including mosques, madrasas, and mausoleums. The Zeynel Bey Mausoleum in Hasankeyf is one of the most notable examples of Aq Qoyunlu architecture.

Coinage

The Aq Qoyunlu minted their own coins, which were an important aspect of their economic system. These coins often featured the names and titles of their rulers, reflecting the political and cultural influences of the time.

Gallery

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  Sultan Khalil of the Aq Qoyunlu
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  View of Mardin, a city associated with the Aq Qoyunlu
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  Flag of the Aq Qoyunlu
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  Depiction of Oghuz Turks
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  Zeynel Bey Mausoleum in Hasankeyf
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  Sultan Mehmed II and Ughurlu Muhammad
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  Kasımiye Medrese in Mardin
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  Coin of Jahangir, Aq Qoyunlu leader
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  Coin of Uzun Hasan
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  Coin of Yaqub bin Uzun Hasan
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  Gold coin of Baysunghur
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  Coin of Sultan Rustam
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  Coin of Sultan Ahmad
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  Coin of Sultan Muhammed
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  Coin of Sultan Alvand
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  Coin of Sultan Murad

Related pages

• Kara Koyunlu
• Safavid dynasty
• Ottoman Empire
• Oghuz Turks