The dynamics of social structure in the Anatolian Seljuk State

This thesis study, is done in order to put forward the customs, traditions, family structures and believes of Turkmens who migrated from Middle Asia to Anatolia. Also, it investigates the Ahi Order, Anatolian dervishes and holy people who tried to convert the Anatolian people into Islam and Turkish society. While preparing this study, I got information from main contemporary sources and the related national and international studies. The Turkmens, in flocks, who escaped from Mongolian invasion to the Great Seljuk State, were sent to Anatolia because of the political and economic reasons. Thus, the Great Seljuk State was free from settling that crowd of people down into their land. On the other hand, those so crowded Turkmens facilitated to conquer the Anatolia easier. As a result of this event, Anatolia turned into a Moslem-Turk land. As there were some problems with the Turkmens and the inhabitants of Anatolia, there were some conflicts between the Turkmens and the state. Hence, the Turkmens both had to organize themselves against the inhabitants and the Mongols who chased them at that time. Ahi Order, helped them to come together and train them to have professions and get education. As a result of this organization, Turkmens started to grasp some jobs and trade with the Christian people who were ruling those sectors up to that time. Consequently, the Turkmens had the power in economy. Moreover, the foundation system helped them to provide social aid and solve the education and health problems.