Ouzous

The Ouzous, also known as the Uzes, were a Turkic people who formed part of the Oghuz confederation. They migrated westward in the 10th and 11th centuries, eventually settling in the Pontic steppes north of the Black Sea.

Historical sources, including Byzantine chronicles and accounts from other contemporary writers, provide information about the Ouzous' interactions with various groups, including the Pechenegs, Cumans, and the Byzantine Empire. They were known for their nomadic lifestyle, raiding practices, and military prowess.

The Ouzous played a role in the political landscape of the region, sometimes serving as mercenaries in Byzantine armies or engaging in conflicts with neighboring peoples. Their westward migration contributed to the displacement of other groups and altered the ethnic makeup of the Pontic steppes.

Over time, the Ouzous were absorbed into other Turkic groups, notably the Cumans and Kipchaks, and their distinct identity gradually disappeared. Their legacy remains primarily through historical records and scholarly research.

The name "Uz" became associated with various Turkic groups and places, reflecting the historical presence and influence of the Oghuz and related peoples in the region.