History of Ahiska "Meskhetian" Turks, and introduction to Islam
The Meskhetian Turks are genetically similar to Georgians, leading some Georgian historians to consider them Turkified Meskhetians.
In 1944, the Meskhetian population was greatly reduced when Joseph Stalin deported approximately 100,000 to Central Asia and Eastern Europe. Presently, approximately 600–1,000 Ahiska Meskhetian Turks reside in Georgia.
\Meskhetian Turks were forcibly removed from 212 villages. They were packed into cattle wagons and mostly sent to the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic. Members of other ethnic groups were also deported during the operation, including Kurds and Hemshins, bringing the total to approximately 115,000 evicted people.
They were placed in special settlements where they were assigned to forced labor. The deportation and harsh conditions in exile caused between 12,589 to 50,000 deaths.
Soviet documents collected about the 1944 deportations of the Meskhetian Turks showed that the community were referred to simply as "Turks" because of their faith which was Islam.
Soviet documents collected about the 1944 deportations of the Meskhetian Turks showed that the community were referred to simply as "Turks" because of their faith which was Islam.
How was Islam introduced?
The Meskhetian Turks are thought to have converted to Islam between the 16th and 1829 centuries, during the time the Ottoman Empire ruled the region of Samtskhe–Javakheti.
Over time, Islam became the dominant religion of the Turkic peoples. This was accomplished in a few different ways. For one, the Muslim caliphate to the south recruited Turkic soldiers to serve in their armies, spreading the religion that way. However, trade between the Middle East and Central Asia helped spread Islam.
During this period every Muslim of Georgia was referred as Turks and that it was after their second deportation from Uzbekistan that the term "Meskhetian Turks" was invented. According to well-known historian Ronald Wixman, the term "Meskhetian" only came into use in the late 1950s.Indeed, the majority of the Meskhetian Turks call themselves simply as "Turks" or "Ahiskan Turks"
The Meskhetian Turks are thought to have converted to Islam between the 16th and 1829 centuries, during the time the Ottoman Empire ruled the region of Samtskhe–Javakheti.
Over time, Islam became the dominant religion of the Turkic peoples. This was accomplished in a few different ways. For one, the Muslim caliphate to the south recruited Turkic soldiers to serve in their armies, spreading the religion that way. However, trade between the Middle East and Central Asia helped spread Islam.
During this period every Muslim of Georgia was referred as Turks and that it was after their second deportation from Uzbekistan that the term "Meskhetian Turks" was invented. According to well-known historian Ronald Wixman, the term "Meskhetian" only came into use in the late 1950s.Indeed, the majority of the Meskhetian Turks call themselves simply as "Turks" or "Ahiskan Turks"
Types of Ahiska-Turkish Artworks and Designs over the years
The Ahiska-Turkish artistic culture, steeped in history and tradition includes skilled art and presents a diverse array of unique artworks and designs. Below are some notable forms of art:
Textiles: Ahiska-Turkish carpets and rugs are renowned for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns. They often feature geometric designs and sometimes floral motifs.
Embroidery: Traditional embroidery techniques are used to create decorative items like tablecloths, clothing, and home textiles, characterized by colorful threads and detailed stitching.
Pottery: Handcrafted pottery, often adorned with traditional motifs, serves both functional and decorative purposes. The glazing techniques used can vary significantly.
Woodwork: Carved wooden items, including furniture and decorative pieces, reflect the craftsmanship of Ahiska artisans. These often include intricate designs that tell stories or symbolize cultural beliefs.
Calligraphy: Arabic calligraphy is often integrated into artworks, serving both aesthetic and spiritual purposes.
Jewelry: Traditional Ahiska jewelry includes intricate designs, often made from silver and adorned with semi-precious stones.
Each type of artwork reflects the cultural heritage and artistic expression of the Ahiska-Turkish people, making them significant both historically and in contemporary contexts.
