Tatars

Share of Tatars in regions of Russia, 2010 census

Gok turk Epigraph Copy in Gazi University Ankara

Szigetvar 1566

Map-Kypchak Language World

Ареал расселения татар в России. По данным Всероссийской переписи населения 2010 года

Татар националь костюмы

Tatars are a Turkic ethnic group native to the broader region of Tatarstan and other parts of Russia and the former Soviet Union. They have a significant presence in Asia and Europe, with their history and culture deeply intertwined with the regions they inhabit. The Tatars are known for their rich cultural heritage, including language, religion, and traditions that have evolved over centuries.

History

The origins of the Tatars trace back to the medieval Volga Bulgaria and the Golden Horde, two significant states that played crucial roles in the history of Eastern Europe and Central Asia. The Mongol invasion in the 13th century led by Genghis Khan resulted in the formation of the Golden Horde, which later fragmented into smaller khanates, including the Kazan Khanate, which was predominantly Tatar.

In 1552, the Russian Empire under Ivan the Terrible conquered the Kazan Khanate, marking the beginning of Russian rule over the Tatar territories. This period saw the gradual Russification and Christianization efforts, but the Tatars managed to preserve their Islamic faith, language, and many aspects of their culture.

Culture

Tatar culture is a rich tapestry that includes literature, music, dance, and cuisine, reflecting the diverse influences of the Turkic, Mongolic, and later Russian and Islamic civilizations. The Tatar language, belonging to the Kipchak branch of the Turkic languages, is an essential aspect of their identity, with both Cyrillic and Latin scripts used.

Islam plays a significant role in Tatar culture, with the majority of Tatars adhering to the Sunni branch. The establishment of Islam in the Volga region during the Volga Bulgaria period laid the foundation for Islamic scholarship and architecture in the area, exemplified by the historic Qolşärif Mosque in Kazan.

Demographics

Today, Tatars are the second largest ethnic group in Russia after ethnic Russians. While the majority reside in Tatarstan and Bashkortostan, significant communities exist in Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and Siberia, as well as in other countries such as Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Ukraine. The Tatar diaspora also extends to countries like Turkey, Finland, and the United States.

Political and Social Issues

The Tatars have faced various challenges in preserving their identity and autonomy within the Russian Federation. Issues such as language rights, religious freedom, and the representation in political processes are ongoing concerns. The government of Tatarstan has sought to promote Tatar culture and language while navigating its relationship with the central Russian government.

Conclusion

The Tatars contribute significantly to the cultural and ethnic diversity of Russia and the regions they inhabit. Their enduring legacy, from the historical khanates to modern contributions in various fields, reflects a community that has adapted over centuries while maintaining its distinct identity.

Tatars Resources
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