Research Article

The Identity of Oghuz (Ogur) Khagan in the Light of New Evidence: Equivalence of Oghuz Khagan, Alan Gua and Scilurus

Volume: 14 Number: 1 April 30, 2026
TR EN

The Identity of Oghuz (Ogur) Khagan in the Light of New Evidence: Equivalence of Oghuz Khagan, Alan Gua and Scilurus

Abstract

The Oghuz Khan Epic is not only one of the foundational texts of Turkic literature but also occupies a central place in the historical memory of early Turkic societies. This study examines the debates surrounding the origins of the epic and analyzes various interpretations of Oghuz Khan’s identity using a comparative historical analysis approach. Two main perspectives are highlighted in the literature: the first identifies Oghuz Khan with the Xiongnu ruler Modu Chanyu (Mete Han), based on parallels in military organization, leadership traits, and geographic scope; the second associates him with the Scythians. In this study, for the first time, historical evidence regarding the identity of Oghuz Khagan is presented, and the fact that the Oghuz Khagan Epic actually belongs to the Scythians constitutes the main subject of the study.

Keywords

References

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  6. Rice, T. T. (1957). The Scythians. Frederick A. Praeger.
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Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

Archaeology of Asia, Africa and The Americas

Journal Section

Research Article

Publication Date

April 30, 2026

Submission Date

September 1, 2025

Acceptance Date

January 19, 2026

Published in Issue

Year 2026 Volume: 14 Number: 1

APA
Şengül, F. (2026). The Identity of Oghuz (Ogur) Khagan in the Light of New Evidence: Equivalence of Oghuz Khagan, Alan Gua and Scilurus. Anemon Muş Alparslan Üniversitesi Sosyal Bilimler Dergisi, 14(1), 598-618. https://doi.org/10.18506/anemon.1774796