The Impact of Caucasian Political Marriages on Safavid Territory and Court

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Imam Khomeini International University

Abstract

Caucasians, including Georgians, Armenians, and Circassians known as the "Third Force," were used in the Safavid era to counter tensions between Ghezelbash and Tajik elements. This force gradually showed its power to rivals in all areas and gained influence in the center and the state. The talent and ability of Caucasians in all fields gradually led the Safavid kings and local rulers to become close to them in various ways, especially family and marital ties. The tendency of courtiers, Caucasians and provincial rulers as the main actors in Safavid-era politics for family strife stemmed from political needs, economic interests, military capability and territorial expansion which motivated them to enter into these political marriages.

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