Status of Women in State Administration of Aq Qoyunlu in 15th Century: Saray-Khatun and Despina-Khatun
https://doi.org/10.24224/2227-1295-2026-15-4-390-408
Abstract
This article offers an in-depth analysis of the political influence exercised by women on the history of the Aq Qoyunlu state. The study focuses on the participation of khatuns—wives and mothers of rulers — in both domestic and foreign policy, as well as their roles in diplomatic and dynastic affairs. The research is based on contemporary written sources and modern scholarship on the history of Turkic peoples. New data on the diplomatic activities of Saray-Khatun and Despina-Khatun are introduced into academic discourse, along with an assessment of their impact on the balance of power within the state. Special attention is given to the unique position of women at the Aq Qoyunlu court and their involvement in strategic decision-making processes. The article also explores the significance of dynastic marriages as instruments for consolidating authority and advancing foreign policy objectives. It is demonstrated that Saray-Khatun played a pivotal role in mediating conflicts among her sons and in conducting diplomatic negotiations with neighboring powers. Furthermore, Despina-Khatun (Kirya Katerina), despite her Christian background, managed to secure a prominent position at a Muslim court and actively participated in international correspondence. The study establishes that both marriages — those of Saray-Khatun and Despina-Khatun — were of strategic importance to the Aq Qoyunlu. It is concluded that these women not only supported internal stability but also contributed to the formation of new political alliances. Ultimately, the article argues that the khatuns of the Aq Qoyunlu were not merely consorts of rulers but independent and influential political actors who left a lasting imprint on the history of their state.
About the Authors
K. Altyn
Erzincan University named after Binali Yildrym
Turkey
Turkey
Kader Altyn – PhD, Associate Professor, Faculty of History
Erzincan
E. Kemurju
Erzincan University named after Binali Yildrym
Turkey
Turkey
Elif Kemurju – PhD, Researcher, Faculty of History
Erzincan
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Review
For citations:
Altyn K., Kemurju E. Status of Women in State Administration of Aq Qoyunlu in 15th Century: Saray-Khatun and Despina-Khatun. Nauchnyi dialog. 2026;15(4):390-408. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.24224/2227-1295-2026-15-4-390-408
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