The Kurdish Emirate of Za'faranlu in the Khorasan Region during the Era of Mir Raza Quli Khan (1234-1248 AH / 1819-1832 CE)

Abstract

The Kurds of Khorasan are an essential part of the Kurdish nation who have lived in the northern Khorasan region for a long time. Identifying a specific date for the presence of the Kurds in the region is not possible; however, during some historical periods, particularly during the Safavid era, the Kurds were either relocated or migrated to this region. After arriving in the region, the Kurds formed some autonomous emirates. The Emirate of Za'faranlu was one of the emirates that played an important role in the region during the Qajar era. The capital of the Emirate was the city of Quchan. Mir Raza Quli Khan was one of the most prominent Emirs of the emirate who had a significant role and influence in the Khorasan region.

The importance of this research lies in the fact that, to date, no studies have been conducted on the Kurds of Khorasan, particularly the Za'faranlu Emirate. The existing Kurdish literature shows lack of research in this area. Therefore, this study is considered one of the earliest scholarly efforts to examine the Za'faranlu Emirate.

This research investigates the history of the relocation and migration of the Za'faranlu tribe, the Za'faranlu Emirate during the era of Mir Raza Quli Khan and the fate of Mir Khan. The study also examines the military and political role and status of the emirate, as well as its relations with the governors of Khorasan and the Qajar authority in Tehran.