Relations between Kashgar Khanate and England

This thesis examines the diplomatic, commercial, and political relations between the Kashgar State, which ruled in East Turkestan between 1865-1877, and the British Empire. The study presents a multidimensional analysis of the relations established between the Kashgar State under Yakub Beg's leadership and Britain, in light of British archival documents, diplomatic correspondence of the period, and reports from travelers to East Turkestan and official envoys sent by the British Indian government. The research examines in detail Britain's policy of viewing the Kashgar State as a buffer zone against Russian expansionism in Central Asia and the diplomatic initiatives developed in this context in terms of cause and effect relationships, and sheds light on the beginning, development, and conclusion phases of these relations. Important issues such as the Forsyth missions conducted in 1870 and 1873, trade agreements, establishment of consular relations, Britain's attitudes towards the Manchus' second East Turkestan invasion, and the Russian factor in these relations constitute the focal points of the thesis. The thesis also evaluates the position of the Kashgar State within the complex network of international relations of the period in the context of Anglo-Russian rivalry and examines the impact of China's policies towards East Turkestan on these relations. The study also thoroughly examines the role played by Britain's Indian colonial administration in shaping Kashgar policy and efforts to develop trade relations. In conclusion, this research aims to contribute to the international relations history of the period by analyzing the changing power dynamics in Central Asia during the second half of the 19th century, specifically focusing on Kashgar-British relations. The thesis illuminates these previously understudied relations using a wide range of sources and brings a new perspective to the region's history.