İÇ ASYA’NIN KÜLTÜREL KÖPRÜSÜ: UYGURLARIN MOĞOLLARLA ETKİLEŞİMİ
THE CULTURAL BRIDGE OF INNER ASIA: THE INTERACTION BETWEEN THE UYGHURS AND THE MONGOLS

Summary/Abstract: The historical journey of the Uyghurs often presents a fragmented image, as different periods are examined in isolation. However, to understand the rich legacy of the Uyghurs, it is essential to establish continuity across these periods and uncover the unifying elements of their history. The transformation they experienced during the Middle Ages was not merely a cultural and political shift but a multifaceted process that shaped their identity. The history of the Uyghurs began with their nomadic Turkic traditions and reached a critical juncture during the Khaganate period (AD 744-840). During this time, the political influence of Chinese civilization, the economic and cultural impact of Sogdian merchants, and the religious teachings of Manichaeism profoundly influenced Uyghur society. However, the end of the Khaganate marked the beginning of a diaspora period, where the Uyghurs engaged with a broader cultural spectrum. This era saw their interaction with diverse faiths, such as Buddhism and Nestorian Christianity, and their integration with local communities in the Tarim Basin. This multilayered transformation process created a dynamic framework that enabled the Uyghurs to redefine themselves throughout history. Ultimately, with the rise of the Mongol Empire, the Uyghurs began constructing a new social and political identity under the influence of this emerging power center. This study focuses on the role and change of the Uyghurs in the Mongol Empire. The administrative roles of the Uyghurs and their cultural interactions are evaluated through travelogues and historical evidence from the period.

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