Introduction

The question of why Anatolians changed their names to Turkic ones after being invaded by the Mongols is complex and multifaceted. This article delves into the historical, cultural, and linguistic contexts that led to these changes, dispelling common misconceptions and providing a nuanced understanding of the region's history.

Myth vs. Reality: Anatolia's Origins

First and foremost, Anatolia is not of Greek origin. The term 'Anatolia' has a historical and geographical significance distinct from the ancient Greek usage. While the term 'Anatolia' may have Greek roots, it has evolved over time to refer to lands further from the coast. Historically, the term 'Anatolia' referred to the initial settlers on these lands, who were not necessarily of Greek descent.

The Current Misunderstanding: The misconception that Anatolia is Greek in origin stems from the later adoption of this term by the Greeks. During ancient times, 'Anatolia' had a different meaning, with Olymp mountain being in the west. By the time the Greeks adopted this term, it referred to lands to the east, not the original inhabitants of the region.

Unchanged Until WWII: The use of 'Turk-Ey' (literally 'Turky') to denote Anatolia was not in widespread use until after World War II. Before this time, the term had different connotations and significances.

Role of the Seljuks and Turkic Influence

The Seljuk Administration (1078-1243): From a historical perspective, the Seljuks, as a ruling administration in Anatolia, did not actively promote Turkification among their Christian subjects. There were several reasons for this lack of active Turkification policy:

No Ethnic Majority: As nomadic invaders, the Turkic ruling minority never formed an ethnic majority that could enforce their language and religion on other groups. Encouraged Repopulation: The Turkic ruling minority even encouraged Christian populations to repopulate areas affected by widespread depopulation caused by Turkic raids in the 11th century.

Long-Term Turkic Occupation: Despite the lack of active Turkification, the long-term Turkic occupation of former Roman lands still led to several developments:

Ethnic Intermarriage: Early 11th-century intermarriage created a new class of hybridized people, gradually increasing the number of Muslims. Trade and Coalitions: Cooperation and trade activities between local aristocracies and Seljuk warlords led to a less alignment with Byzantine interests. Cultural Exchange: Cultural exchanges resulted in a shared religious identity and a common language, particularly among the lower classes. Central Consolidation: The Seljuk consolidation of central Anatolia further strengthened Turkish influence. Erosion of Roman Institutions: Medieval Roman institutions weakened, particularly after the early 13th century, due to various conflicts and neglect by Turkish authorities.

Language Change and Conversion Patterns

Primary Language: Greek in the 12th Century: By the 12th century, Anatolia predominantly spoke Greek, except for coastal areas. The Komnenian revival helped restore Roman control in these regions.

Latin Conquest and Mongols: The Shift Begins: The Latin conquest of Constantinople in 1204 and the arrival of the Mongol horde caused additional waves of Turkic migrants to enter Anatolia. After the 1261 Byzantine reconquest, the loss of Christian education led to further linguistic and cultural shifts.

Mongol Victory and Ilkhanate Overlords: The Mongol defeat of the Seljuks of Rum in 1243 further disrupted Anatolia, leading to its vassalization. Ilkhanate overlords who spoke a Turkic language and practised Islam accelerated Turkification.

Turkish Adoption and Place Names: By the 13th century, Turkish began to spread widely, and Turkic place names started appearing.

Turkic Principalities and Sultanate: The dissolution of the Sultanate of Rum increased Turkic rule's oppressiveness, as multiple principalities under Seljuk warlords increasingly patronized their religion and language.

Ottoman Period: Mass Conversions and Policies: The successes of the early Ottomans and the arrival of Sufi mystics from Persia led to mass conversions in Anatolia. Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II initiated policies of religious tolerance, including towards minorities.

Conclusion

Understanding the historical and cultural shifts in Anatolia is crucial for grasping the complex interactions between different ethnic groups and the factors that led to the widespread adoption of the Turkic language and identity. It is important to recognize that the changes were a result of various historical factors and not a forced transformation imposed by conquerors.