Eldiguzids (Atabegs of Azerbaijan) facts for kids

The Ildegizids (also called Eldiguzids or Ildenizids) were a powerful family from a group called the Kipchaks. They were part of the Turkic people. People also knew them as the Atabegs of Azerbaijan.

This family ruled a large area in the 1100s and 1200s. Their lands included much of what is now northwestern Iran and most of Azerbaijan. They also controlled smaller parts of modern Armenia, Turkey, and Iraq.

What is an Atabeg?

The word "Atabeg" means "father lord" in Turkic languages. It was a special title given to important Turkic leaders. These leaders served the Seljuk rulers.

An Atabeg was more than just an officer. They were like a very powerful governor. They acted as "vice-regents," meaning they ruled in place of the king or prince. Often, they were the "de-facto rulers," which means they held the real power, even if someone else was officially in charge.

Important Eldiguzid Rulers

Here are the main rulers of the Eldiguzid family:

• Shams al-Din Ildeniz or Eldigüz (about 1135 or 1136 to 1174 or 1175)
• Mohammed Jahan Pahlavan (1174 or 1175 to 1186)
• Qizil Arslan (1186 to 1191)
• Abu Bakr (1191 to 1210)
• Uzbek (1210 to 1225)

Images for kids

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  This is a double-page from a holy book called the Qur'an. It was made for Abu’l-Qasim Harun, who was a top advisor to Özbeg. Özbeg was the last ruler of the Eldiguzids.

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  The Momine Khatun Mausoleum is a beautiful building. It was built by Eldiguzid ruler Jahan Pahlawan to honor his mother, Mu'mine Khatun.