The position and function of the Ziyad Oghli Qajar dynasty in Caucasus developments during the reign of Shah Tahmasb I Safavid (with emphasis on the role of Shahverdi Sultan Ziyad Oghli Qajar)

Ziyad Oghli Qajar dynasty was among the important and influential families in the Caucasus who emerged from the transformation process of the political and administrative structure of the Safavid government. This dynasty developed from the Qajar tribe and gained power in Karabakh by the support of the Safavid kings. Ziyad Oghli dynasty was one of the most important advocates of the establishment and perpetuation of the political sovereignty of the Safavid state in the Caucasus. There is no clear picture of their political and military role in Karabakh during the reign of Shah Tahmasb I, and therefore, further studies is essential. This research attempted to answer the question: What was Ziyad Oghli dynasty’s role in the political developments of the Caucasus during the reign of Shah Tahmasb I? The findings showed that the Ziyad Oghli dynasty was responsible for the security and protection of the Safavid frontiers against the Ottomans. Moreover, they had to deal with Georgia's internal affairs and suppress the riots against the Safavid state in the eastern parts of Georgia. In other words, their most important role was to stabilize and perpetuate the political sovereignty of the Safavid state in the Caucasus.The research was a descriptive and analytical study.