Chobanids

The Chobanids were a princely dynasty of Oirat Mongol origin who ruled a large part of northwestern Persia (present-day Azerbaijan and surrounding areas) from the mid-14th to the mid-15th centuries. Their rule began during the disintegration of the Ilkhanate, the Mongol successor state in Persia.

The dynasty was founded by Amir Choban, a powerful Oirat general who rose to prominence in the Ilkhanate court. After the death of Ilkhan Abu Sa'id in 1335, Choban became a kingmaker, installing puppet Ilkhans on the throne. However, he was eventually overthrown and killed in 1327/1328.

Despite Choban's death, his descendants, known as the Chobanids, continued to wield considerable influence. His grandsons, Surgan and Malek Ashraf, established their own independent rule in Azerbaijan and surrounding territories in the 1340s. They initially styled themselves as governors on behalf of the Ilkhans, but soon acted as independent rulers.

Malek Ashraf, in particular, became a dominant figure. His reign was marked by campaigns against neighboring rulers and a reputation for tyranny and extortion. His oppressive policies eventually led to widespread discontent and rebellions.

The Chobanid dynasty was ultimately brought to an end by the Golden Horde. In 1357, Janibeg, the Khan of the Golden Horde, invaded Azerbaijan and defeated and executed Malek Ashraf. Although some Chobanid princes attempted to continue the dynasty, they were unable to restore its former power. Their territories were subsequently divided between various local rulers, including the Jalayirids, a rival Mongol dynasty.

The Chobanids played a significant role in the political landscape of 14th-century Persia during a period of fragmentation and instability following the collapse of the Ilkhanate. Their rise and fall reflect the complex interplay of Mongol, Turkic, and Persian elements in the region during this turbulent era.