Qarqalpaq

The Qarqalpaq are a Turkic people primarily residing in western Uzbekistan. They have historically inhabited the Kgoti Oasis and its surroundings, in the Kizil-Kum Desert region. The name "Qarqalpaq" is believed to originate from the ancient Turkic word "qarlak," which roughly translates to "wind-swept" or "blown." This etymology may symbolize the people's history of migrations and expansions in the desert regions of Central Asia.

Historically, the Qarqalpaq were part of the numerous Turkic tribes that arrived in the region in the wake of the Mongol invasions. They later became part of the Khanate of Khiva, a medieval polity that once controlled a large portion of the Khorasan region. Their early history is shrouded in mystery, with fragmented accounts of their migrations and interactions with neighboring tribes available.

The Qarqalpaq are mostly Muslims, having adopted Sunni Islam in the 13th century. Their traditional cultural and social norms stem from their Turkic heritage, blended with Islamic influences and localized traditions. Their ethnic identity and cultural practices have partially interlaced with Uzbek culture, resulting in shared linguistic and cultural patterns with their Uzbek neighbors.

Today, the approximate number of Qarqalpaq people living in Uzbekistan is around 500,000. This figure represents a diverse range of individuals with distinct cultural practices and languages, resulting from complex historical migrations and assimilation processes.