The Demographics and History of Kurds and Assyrians

The current global population of Kurds is estimated to be around 36-45 million, far from the 73 million often cited in media. While Assyrians, who are descendants of the ancient Assyrian Empire, number less than 5 million. These figures raise questions about the reasons behind these differences, especially when considering the historical empires and the evolution of ethnic identities over time.

Why Are the Kurdish Population Estimates So High?

Often, the reported Kurdish population is inaccurately high due to various sources using outdated or inflated figures. According to reliable sources, the population is closer to 36 to 45 million. Many Kurds I have known are indeed good people, and their resilience and adaptability have contributed to their significant numbers.

The Rise and Fall of Empires and Ethnic Identities

Empires come and go. The rise and fall of empires, such as the Assyrian Empire, do not define the future of ethnic identities. The Assyrian Empire, particularly the imperial Assyrians, had a distinct state but not a singular ethnicity, much like how modern understanding of the term "Roman" does not refer to the original inhabitants of Rome.

The Language Transition and Identity

The language of the Assyrian Empire evolved over time. Aramaic, which became the common language, was not the language of the original Assyrians, who spoke Akkadian. Akkadian remained the official language of the Babylonian Empire, and it was later replaced by Greek after the conquests of Alexander the Great. Greek became the official language of the Seleucid and Parthian Empires.

Nationalism and Christianity

The name "Assyrian" evolved over time to be associated with the language and the form of Christianity, Nestorianism, which the speakers favoured. This religion was often seen as heretical by Roman authorities, leading to frequent conflicts. Tracing the decline of the Seleucid Empire and the subsequent shrinking of the name "Assyrian" or "Syrian," we see how the pool of people calling themselves Assyrian diminished.

Kurdish Ethnicity: A Broader Community

Kurdish ethnicity, in contrast, is a broader community that includes speakers of several Iranian group languages. While the population estimates for Kurds are disputed, they are generally accepted to be around 36 to 45 million. Kurds are mostly Muslim, and their nomadic lifestyle as tent-dwellers in mountainous areas was initially accepted by states in the region.

The Impact of Nationalism and Religions on Ethnic Identities

Religion has often been the primary determinant of ethnic identities, both for Kurds and Assyrians. As nationalism and the concept of dividing the world into nation-states gained prominence in the 20th century, it became increasingly difficult to maintain a shared language and culture outside religious contexts. This highlights the destructive nature of nationalism and the complex interplay between religion, ethnicity, and state boundaries.

Conclusion: The Evolving Nature of Ethnicities

The history of the Kurds and Assyrians exemplifies the fluidity and complexity of ethnic identities. While empires rise and fall, the populations and their ethnic identities continue to evolve. Understanding these dynamics can provide valuable insights into the challenges and resilience of ethnic communities across time.