Makuists

The Makuists are a central Asian ethnic group primarily residing in the Maku region of East Azerbaijan Province, Iran. They are a subset of the larger Azerbaijanis ethnicity and primarily speak a dialect of Azerbaijani, known as Maku language.

The Makuists have a distinct cultural identity shaped by their history and geography. They have historically been a rural society, with a majority of the population engaged in agriculture, animal husbandry, and trade. The Makuists have also been influenced by their proximity to the border with Turkey and Iraq, resulting in a unique blend of cultural and linguistic traditions.

The Makuists are primarily Sunni Muslims and adhere to the customs and practices of Shia Islam. The region has a strong tradition of Sufism, with numerous holy shrines and zawiyas (Islamic shrines) throughout the area. The most significant of these shrines is the shrine of Sheikh Afendi, a 13th-century Sufi mystic and poet.

The region has a relatively high rate of literacy among the rural population, with access to primary and secondary education. The Makuists have also made significant contributions to the arts and literature, with traditional music, poetry, and handicrafts being an integral part of their cultural heritage. Despite facing challenges related to development and economic growth, the Makuists have maintained a distinct identity and cultural traditions that are unique to the region.