Göktürks - The First Nation to Make "Turk" a State Name
Who Were the Göktürks?
The Göktürks were a Turkic people who first used the name "Turk" as the official name of a state and established a powerful empire in Central Asia. They were both warriors and the first Turks to use writing to record their own history.
Where and When Were They Established?
The Göktürks emerged in Central Asia during the 6th century, around the Altai Mountains and the Orkhon River. In 552, under the leadership of Bumin Kağan, they founded the Göktürk State. Their capital was Ötüken, a region regarded by the Turks as their sacred homeland.
Why Are They Called “Göktürk”?
The Göktürks used the word "gök" to refer to the blue sky and to symbolize nobility. Thus, the name "Göktürk" signifies both the blue sky and the "children of the sky."
What Did They Do?
- They won their independence in Central Asia by resisting Chinese domination.
- They were skilled metallurgists, highly advanced in the production of armor, weapons, and tools.
- They ruled vast territories through a nomadic way of life.
- They used their own alphabet and left behind written monuments.
Göktürk Alphabet and Inscriptions
The Göktürks developed their own writing system and created the Orkhon Inscriptions. These stone monuments recount the lives and state philosophy of Bilge Kağan, Kültigin, and Tonyukuk. The inscriptions address themes such as protecting the people, upholding justice, and offering counsel to rulers. These inscriptions are still readable today!
Famous Figures
- Bumin Kağan: Founder of the state.
- İstemi Kağan: Ruler of the western territories.
- Bilge Kağan: A ruler renowned for his wisdom and justice.
- Tonyukuk: A wise advisor, remembered as the intellect of the state.
- Kültigin: A brave commander who governed the state alongside his elder brother, Bilge Kağan.
References:
- Özdamarlar, Metin. İlk Türk Devletleri. Istanbul: Timaş Yayınları, 2019.
- TDV İslam Ansiklopedisi, “Göktürkler” entry.
- Turkish Historical Society. Orkhon Inscriptions and Turkish Culture.
