Ghaznavids

The State of Great Campaigns and Cities of Science

The Ghaznavids were a Turkic-Islamic state founded in the 10th century and renowned particularly for their military campaigns into India. They achieved great success both in warfare and in the fields of science and art. The state derived its name from the city of Ghazna.

When and Where Were They Founded?

The Ghaznavids were established in 963 in the territory of present-day Afghanistan. Their capital was the city of Ghazna. Over time, the state expanded as far as India and ruled over a vast territory. Its golden age occurred during the reign of Mahmud of Ghazni.

What Did They Do?

- They launched 17 major campaigns into India.

- They began spreading Islam in India.

- They built large libraries, madrasas and palaces.

- They supported scientists and scholars.

- They used Persian and Turkish together.

Famous Figures

- Mahmud of Ghazni: The most powerful and renowned ruler. He is famous for his campaigns into India. He was the first Turkic leader to use the title “Sultan”.

- Biruni: A great scientist who worked in many fields including astronomy, mathematics and geography.

- Ferdowsi: He composed the famous epic Shahnameh during this period.

References:

- Özdamarlar, Metin. İlk Türk Devletleri. Istanbul: Timaş Yayınları, 2019.

- TDV İslam Ansiklopedisi, “Gazneliler” entry.

- Türk Tarih Kurumu Yayınları. Türk-İslam Devletleri Tarihi.

- Ministry of Culture. Mahmud of Ghazni and His Era.