Saqal (Turgesh Khagan)

Saqal (also spelled Saqal Khan) was a khagan of the Turgesh Khaganate, ruling in the early 8th century CE. He belonged to the Yellow Turgesh faction. His reign was marked by continued conflict with the expanding Umayyad Caliphate to the south and attempts to consolidate Turgesh power in Central Asia.

Saqal is believed to have succeeded Suluk as khagan. While historical records from the period are fragmented and sometimes contradictory, it is understood that his rule was a period of instability and infighting within the Turgesh Khaganate. The Turgesh were already struggling to maintain their control over Sogdia and other Central Asian regions in the face of Arab incursions. Internal power struggles further weakened their position.

Specific details of Saqal's campaigns and political maneuvers are scarce. The sources generally portray him as a leader facing significant challenges, both from external enemies and internal dissent. His reign appears to have been relatively brief, and he was eventually replaced by another khagan, although the exact circumstances of his removal from power are unclear. His reign highlights the declining fortunes of the Turgesh Khaganate in the face of increasing Arab pressure and internal divisions.