The Role of the Heterodox Kurdish in the Period of the Rivalry of Yavuz Sultan Selim and Shah Ismail (Based on Selimshahname of İdris-i Bitlisi)

Abstract

This article focuses on the role of the Kurds in the Safavid State during its establishment and restructuring period and aims to reveal the influence of the Kurds on Shah Ismail Safevi’s acquisition of power. The Ottoman Empire showed a serious and multi-faceted reaction to the active ideological and strategic role and influence of the Kurds on Shah Ismail’s ascending to the throne, and followed the policy of maximum absorption and minimal repulsion against this political preference of the Kurds.

The period in question also represents an important beginning in the history of the Kurds who remained in the field of the Ottoman Empire. Sultan Selim's Eastern expedition and its relations with Iran and tense processes with Shah Ismail take an important place in the majority of Selimnames. Among these Selimnames, the Selimşahname is undoubtedly the most important for the Kurds and Kurdish history belonging to İdris-i Bitlisi with detailed information about the topics and political approaches.