Diplomatic relations between the Byzantine Empire and the Turkish states (IV-VII. centuries) Huns, Avars, Göktürks, Hazars, Bulgars

Although diplomacy has been applied in different ways in different eras and times, it is a method that states have resorted to. Diplomacy is not only a part of times of war, but has also been an effective method for solving various problems in times of peace. In the 4th and 7th centuries, diplomatic relations played an important role in the internal and external relations of the Turks. The Turks' widespread geographical distribution provided them with the opportunity to meet many states. They strengthened their relations with other states through the diplomatic methods they developed. The geography where the Turks lived and their nomadic lifestyle enabled them to adapt to wherever they went. This situation was also reflected in diplomatic relations and became more flexible. Diplomacy during this period strengthened internal and external dynamics. The aim is to examine the diplomatic relations and interactions between the Byzantine Empire and the Turkish states. The history of diplomacy in the Byzantine Empire is full of important developments and social changes. The diplomatic contributions of the Roman Empire, which was built on the Hellenic heritage, shaped the Byzantine understanding of diplomacy. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantium) took over the diplomatic legacy and continued it for many years. Byzantium's understanding of diplomacy focused mainly on its relations with the countries around it. The Turks' contributions to diplomacy are particularly evident in the historical role of the European Hun Empire. Although the Byzantine Empire's relations with the Huns were marked by centuries of threats and struggles, they played an important role in the survival of the Byzantine Empire. The European Huns were an important actor in the history of Byzantine diplomacy, and the relations between the two sides resonated throughout world history. Byzantine diplomacy was used as a powerful tool for the survival of the Byzantine Empire, especially during the period of migration. The political and diplomatic relations between the European Huns and Byzantium, which spanned approximately a century, intensified during the reigns of Theodosius II and Attila. Both civilizations shaped diplomacy in accordance with their own cultural structures and strategies, demonstrating the need for a institutional approach to diplomatic relations based on a common understanding. Due to the absence of a traditional practice during the succession process in the Byzantine Empire, many succession disputes arose. After the first relations and interactions between Byzantium and the Turks at the state level, the Turks also became part of Byzantium's diplomatic relations at certain times. In Byzantine-Turkish diplomatic relations, the Turks began to be seen more often in Byzantine internal politics. The research revealed that the Byzantine Empire established diplomatic relations with Turkish states and implemented policies to secure peace with them by giving them money and valuable items, forming alliances with them to eliminate their enemies, and seeking refuge and help from them. Additionally, it was observed that the Byzantine Empire sought assistance from Turkish states through diplomatic relations during its internal turmoil and succession disputes. This research is important in terms of identifying the diplomatic relations and interactions between the Byzantine Empire and the Turkish States, serving as an example for future research and studies on the subject, and contributing to the literature, given the lack of research and studies in the literature that address the Byzantine Empire and the ancient Turkish States from a diplomatic perspective Keywords: Byzantine Empire, Diplomatic Relations, Turkish States