Images of Edige and Tokhtamysh in Contemporary Historiography within the Context of a Comparative Analysis of Approaches

Dinara K. Suleimenova

2025

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DOI 10.63051/kos.2025.2.272
Data confidence 85 high
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Abstract

Purpose and significance of the research. The aim of this article is to analyze and compare modern historiographical approaches to the images of Edige and Tokhtamysh, prominent figures of the Golden Horde during the late 14th to early 15th centuries. The research highlights how these figures are interpreted in current academic discourse and why those interpretations differ across scholarly traditions. The significance lies in understanding the role of historical narratives in shaping collective memory and national identity. Novelty, directions, and research ideas. This study focuses not on primary source analysis but on evaluating interpretations in contemporary historiography. It highlights how Eastern (mostly Turkic and Central Asian) and Western (primarily Russian and European) scholars construct divergent narratives about Edige and Tokhtamysh. The novelty is in revealing the influence of national historiographical traditions on academic interpretation. Scientific objectives and practical value. The objectives are to: - identify dominant historiographical approaches to both figures; - compare interpretive tendencies across regions; - assess how these interpretations reflect broader ideological and cultural contexts. The findings are relevant for historians studying Eurasian identity, political symbolism, and historical memory. Methodological characteristics. The article employs historiographical and comparative methods. It is based on qualitative analysis of academic literature, focusing on interpretation strategies, argumentation patterns, and the national context of scholarly production. Main findings and conclusion. Eastern historiography often portrays Edige and Tokhtamysh as stabilizing forces and legitimate heirs to the Jochid tradition. In contrast, Western scholarship emphasizes their roles in political conflict and military aggression. These contrasting narratives are rooted in differing historical experiences and academic traditions. The study concludes that further research should expand the comparative scope and include memory studies, cultural representations, and interdisciplinary analysis.