Uzbeks

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Uzbeks are a Turkic ethnic group native to Central Asia, primarily found in Uzbekistan, but also in significant numbers in Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Russia. They are the largest ethnic group in Uzbekistan, making up about 80% of the population.

History

The history of the Uzbeks dates back to the early medieval period when they were part of the Turkic Khaganate. The name "Uzbek" is believed to have originated from Uzbek Khan, a ruler of the Golden Horde in the 14th century. The Uzbeks played a significant role in the establishment of the Timurid Empire and later the Khanate of Bukhara and the Khanate of Khiva.

Language

The Uzbeks speak the Uzbek language, which belongs to the Karluk branch of the Turkic languages. Uzbek has several dialects, with the most prominent being the Northern dialect and the Southern dialect. The language has been influenced by Persian, Arabic, and Russian.

Culture

Uzbek culture is rich and diverse, with influences from Persian, Turkic, and Islamic traditions. The Uzbeks are known for their music, dance, and literature. Traditional Uzbek music includes the maqom and shashmaqom genres. Uzbek dance is characterized by its intricate hand movements and expressive gestures.

Cuisine

Uzbek cuisine is famous for its variety and richness. Some of the most popular dishes include plov, a rice dish cooked with meat and vegetables, samsa, a type of pastry filled with meat, and laghman, a noodle dish. Green tea is the national beverage, and bread holds a special place in Uzbek culture.

Clothing

Traditional Uzbek clothing includes the chapan, a long robe, and the tyubeteika, a type of cap. Women often wear colorful dresses and headscarves. Traditional clothing is often adorned with intricate embroidery and patterns.

Religion

The majority of Uzbeks are Sunni Muslims, following the Hanafi school of thought. Islam plays a significant role in the daily lives and cultural practices of the Uzbeks. There are also small communities of Shia Muslims, Christians, and Jews among the Uzbeks.

Notable Uzbeks

• Amir Timur (Tamerlane) - Founder of the Timurid Empire
• Alisher Navoi - Poet and statesman
• Islam Karimov - First President of Uzbekistan

Related Pages

• Uzbekistan
• Turkic peoples
• Timurid Empire
• Khanate of Bukhara
• Khanate of Khiva
• Uzbek language
• Plov