A Turkmen Union:The Karamanids

Much of Turkmens who came to Anatolia escaped from the Mongol invasion were settled in the southern regions of Anatolia by the Anatolian Seljuk State which experienced the most powerful period in first quarter of 13th century. These Turkmen tribes were organized under the Karamanids’ administration. Karamanids soon acquired an important position in Turkish politics through geographical opportunities and the political vacuum created by the struggle of the Anatolian Seljuks against the Mongols. Karamanids had made significant contributions to Anatolia as the Turks’ homeland. In addition, they fought against the Mongolian invasion in union with the Turkmens. In addition, they organized Turkmen tribes against the Mongol invasion and fought together. In this study we examine the discussions about the origin of the Karamanids and the effects of Anatolia becoming the Turkish homeland.