The Bactrian State (3rd-2nd centuries BCE)

The history of Bactria, which is not well-known field even globally, appears as necessary to get attention more in Türkiye as well. Bactria, where is in Asia and far from the seas, is a distinctive region with its very old history, wealthy periods in history and being the scene of turmoil in the modern era. This region, which was become under the rule of many powers, especially Turks, throughout history and contained various peoples in, is important with having gone through processes it affected its environment quietly as a political and military power. The State of Bactria, which was appeared on the stage of history by breaking away from the Seleukids that was born soon after Alexander's death following his invasion of the region and that covered Bactria, and which ruled the region in 3rd-2nd centuries BCE, is prominent in the regional history. Although the rulers of this state were of foreign origin to the region, they were heavily influenced by the culture of the region which was ethnically diverse while they had been estranging to their own culture they had brought with them to the region. This state, which has reached its zenith with its ruler Demetrios, has been put under examination by using the limited number of existing primary sources and research works.