The place of migration and settlement experience in collective memory: The example of Meskhetian Turks in Üzümlü district of Erzincan province

ABSTRACT This study examines the impact of migration and settlement experiences on the collective memory of the Ahıska Turks, a community that has been subjected to various migration processes throughout history. The research aims to understand the place of these experiences in the collective memory of the Ahıska Turks residing in the Üzümlü district of Erzincan province. Using a mixedmethod approach, both qualitative and quantitative data were collected to gain a comprehensive understanding of how migration and settlement have shaped the individual and collective memory of this community. The data were primarily collected through surveys, which aimed to capture the personal experiences of the participants regarding migration and settlement, and how these experiences have influenced their identities and been integrated into the collective memory. This method allowed for an in-depth exploration of the participants' migration journeys, the challenges they faced, and the ways in which these experiences have been remembered and passed down as a significant cultural heritage within the community. The findings reveal that migration and settlement play a crucial role in the formation of the Ahıska Turks' identity and collective memory. Participants' migration experiences are not only personal narratives but also form a vital part of the collective memory within the community. These experiences are transmitted to future generations as an important cultural legacy, significantly influencing the construction of the community's collective identity. In conclusion, this study underscores the profound impact of migration and settlement on the social identity and memory of the Ahıska Turks, highlighting how these processes have been instrumental in shaping their cultural identity and intergenerational connections.