BABA KHAN: THE FATE OF THE HEIR OF MERV

Abstract

Documents on the history of 19th-century Turkmenistan abound with the names of prominent khans and eminent elders. Baba Khan occupies a worthy place among them. However, this figure has never found a place in Turkmen historiography. The author of this study decided to correct this historical injustice and include this extraordinary figure among the famous.

The purpose of this study was to describe Baba Khan as he truly was, with all his strengths and weaknesses. It was this impartial approach and description of his true character that helped us accurately understand his actions and intentions. Baba Khan was destined to live during a very difficult time. The Turkmen tribes, having just gained relative independence from Khiva, Bukhara, and Iran, faced a new challenge: the arrival of the Russian Imperial army in the region. Only strong and gifted individuals could lead the confrontation with this powerful force. After the death of Govshut Khan, this burden fell on the still-weak shoulders of the young Baba Khan.

To solve the task, it was necessary to describe the complex political situation that developed in the Merv Oasis in the last quarter of the 19th century. Numerous historical sources and press materials were reviewed. Using a comprehensive research approach, the author was able to analyze the available historical documents, compare them, and make an accurate assessment of the events of that time.