Mamlakatlar

Mamlakatlar is a term used in Uzbek and other Turkic languages to denote states, realms, or political territories that are governed by a ruler and hold a defined jurisdiction. The word conveys a sense of sovereignty and organized governance, not just geographic area.

Etymology and usage: the word mamlakat originates from Arabic meaning kingdom or sovereignty, and in Uzbek it appears in the plural form mamlakatlar. In historical and political writing, mamlakatlar refers to distinct polities such as kingdoms, khanates, sultanates, or emirates—the varied autonomous or semi-autonomous entities that existed within larger imperial spheres or regional networks.

Historical context: Central Asia and the broader Turkic world have long featured numerous mamlakatlar with shifting borders, alliances, and rivalries. Chronicles and histories describe these polities as separate realms under different rulers, often interacting through warfare, diplomacy, marriage, and tribute. The term emphasizes political sovereignty and institutional governance rather than merely geographic space.

Contemporary usage: in modern Uzbek, mamlakatlar can be used to refer to countries in a general sense, though contemporary administrative language more commonly uses davlat or davlatlar for “state” or “country.” In scholarly or cultural contexts, mamlakatlar remains a neutral, historical or regional term for sovereign polities or notable political entities.

See also: state, kingdom, khanate, sultanate.