Migration and Ethnopolitical Heritage of Sabirs in Southeastern Europe
Abstract
The purpose of the research paper is to systematise and analyse the migration and ethnopolitical heritage of Sabirs in Southeastern Europe. The main focus is on their role in military conflicts, interaction with Byzantium and the Sasanian Empire, as well as their influence on the formation of early medieval political entities such as the Bulgarian and Onogur Confederations. The research aims to identify the cultural and linguistic heritage of the Sabirs, which is preserved in place names and linguistic data, as well as to study their unique social structure, including the role of women in Sabir society.
The scientific novelty. The novelty of the research lies in a comprehensive approach to the study of Sabirs, combining the analysis of ancient, Byzantine and Arabic sources with modern research. Special attention is paid to previously insufficiently studied aspects, such as the influence of the Sabirs on Hungarian culture and their participation in the formation of early medieval political formations. For the first time, the role of women in Sabir society is considered in detail, in particular, the ruler of Boaryk, who led the army and entered into an alliance with Byzantium. The study also contributes to the understanding of Sabir military innovations, such as the development of siege engines, which influenced the military art of Byzantium and the Sasanian Empire.
Conclusions. The study showed that the Sabirs played a significant role in shaping the ethnopolitical map of Southeastern Europe and the Caucasus. Their migrations, caused by external threats and internal changes, have led to their settlement in vast territories and participation in key military conflicts. The Sabirs not only acted as mercenaries, but also influenced the cultural and political development of the region. Their cultural heritage can be traced through geographical names and linguistic data, and their unique social structure, including the role of women, highlights their contribution to the development of steppe traditions. Thus, the Sabirs represent an important link in the chain of migrations and cultural interactions that determined the development of Eurasia in the early Middle Ages.
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