Research Article

History and National Consciousness: A Critical Analysis of Kurdish Nationalist Historical Narratives

Volume: 12 Number: 1 March 21, 2026
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History and National Consciousness: A Critical Analysis of Kurdish Nationalist Historical Narratives

Abstract

This research evaluates the complex relationship between history, identity, and nationalism in the Kurdish context. It explores the challenges and motivations in the development of the nationalist narrative of Kurdish history writing. The primary objective of the research is to examine the role of these narratives in shaping national identity and their contribution to nation-building within a historical socio-political framework. While this study engages with the subject through the perspectives of constructivism, it is centered around three key tasks: analysis of the significance of history, in particular its role in defining national identity; exploring the relationship between historiography and political agendas, focusing on how historical narratives are manipulated for political incentives; and finally, a critical evaluation of Kurdish nationalist historical narratives, identifying their complexity and implications for contemporary Kurdish political conditions.  

Keywords

Project Number

1

Ethical Statement

This research explores the complex relationship between history, identity, and nationalism in the Kurdish context with commitment to ethical standards. The study follows the principles of integrity, respect, and responsibility; ensures that all aspects of the research process are conducted transparently. As there are no interviews or surveys conducted in the research, no participants are involved. This research recognizes and respects the cultural and political sensitivities of Kurdish people. The studies are conducted with cultural awareness and respect for the Kurdish culture and history. The study offers a balanced representation of diverse viewpoints regarding Kurdish history, culture, and identity. All sources are properly cited and attrivuted to uphold academic integrity. The research provides an objective analysis, avoiding misrepresentation or bias of historical narratives. By following these ethical principles, the research aims to contribute a meaningful understanding of Kurdish history while obtaining respect and responsibility throughout the research process.

Thanks

My gratitude to Assoc. Prof. Ayhan Geveri

References

  1. Adiyamanê, Z., & Dag, R. (2014). Ottoman reforms and Kurdish reactions in the 19th century. Nubihar Akademi, *1*(2), 47–74. https://doi.org/10.55253/nubihar.388155
  2. Anderson, B. (1991). Imagined communities. London, UK: Verso.
  3. Armstrong, J. A. (1982). Nations before nationalism. Chapel Hill, NC: The University of North Carolina Press.
  4. Aysevener, K. (2009). Antikçağ’dan günümüze tarih tasarımları. CTTAD, *8*(18–19), [sayfa aralığı eksik].
  5. Bedirxan, C. A. (2009). Kurd û welatê wan Kurdistan. İstanbul, Turkey: Avesta Yayınları.
  6. Berger, P. L., & Luckmann, T. (1991). The social construction of reality. London, UK: Penguin Books.
  7. Berger, S., & Conrad, C. (2015). National identity and historical consciousness in modern Europe. Basingstoke, UK: Palgrave Macmillan.
  8. Bey, R. G. (1930). Congress of Turkish history. Cumhuriyet’in 50. Yılında Türk Tarih Kurumu, [sayfa aralığı eksik].

Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

Political Science (Other)

Journal Section

Research Article

Publication Date

March 21, 2026

Submission Date

January 24, 2026

Acceptance Date

March 8, 2026

Published in Issue

Year 2026 Volume: 12 Number: 1

APA
Yilmaz, C. (2026). History and National Consciousness: A Critical Analysis of Kurdish Nationalist Historical Narratives. International Journal of Kurdish Studies, 12(1), 64-102. https://doi.org/10.21600/ijoks.1870377
AMA
1.Yilmaz C. History and National Consciousness: A Critical Analysis of Kurdish Nationalist Historical Narratives. International Journal of Kurdish Studies. 2026;12(1):64-102. doi:10.21600/ijoks.1870377
Chicago
Yilmaz, Cihat. 2026. “History and National Consciousness: A Critical Analysis of Kurdish Nationalist Historical Narratives”. International Journal of Kurdish Studies 12 (1): 64-102. https://doi.org/10.21600/ijoks.1870377.
EndNote
Yilmaz C (March 1, 2026) History and National Consciousness: A Critical Analysis of Kurdish Nationalist Historical Narratives. International Journal of Kurdish Studies 12 1 64–102.
IEEE
[1]C. Yilmaz, “History and National Consciousness: A Critical Analysis of Kurdish Nationalist Historical Narratives”, International Journal of Kurdish Studies, vol. 12, no. 1, pp. 64–102, Mar. 2026, doi: 10.21600/ijoks.1870377.
ISNAD
Yilmaz, Cihat. “History and National Consciousness: A Critical Analysis of Kurdish Nationalist Historical Narratives”. International Journal of Kurdish Studies 12/1 (March 1, 2026): 64-102. https://doi.org/10.21600/ijoks.1870377.
JAMA
1.Yilmaz C. History and National Consciousness: A Critical Analysis of Kurdish Nationalist Historical Narratives. International Journal of Kurdish Studies. 2026;12:64–102.
MLA
Yilmaz, Cihat. “History and National Consciousness: A Critical Analysis of Kurdish Nationalist Historical Narratives”. International Journal of Kurdish Studies, vol. 12, no. 1, Mar. 2026, pp. 64-102, doi:10.21600/ijoks.1870377.
Vancouver
1.Cihat Yilmaz. History and National Consciousness: A Critical Analysis of Kurdish Nationalist Historical Narratives. International Journal of Kurdish Studies. 2026 Mar. 1;12(1):64-102. doi:10.21600/ijoks.1870377
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