Toghrul

Toghrul was a prominent leader of the Oghuz Turks in the 11th century. He is primarily known as the founder and first ruler of the Seljuk Empire. Born around 990, Toghrul was the grandson of Seljuk, the eponym of the Seljuk dynasty. He rose to prominence by leading his Oghuz tribes from Central Asia towards Persia.

Under Toghrul's command, the Seljuks achieved significant military victories. A pivotal moment was their victory at the Battle of Dandanaqan in 1040 against the Ghaznavids, which secured their control over Persia. Toghrul continued his expansion, eventually capturing Baghdad in 1055. This marked the end of the Buyid dynasty's control over the Abbasid Caliphate and established Toghrul as the de facto ruler of the region.

The Abbasid Caliph, Al-Qaim, recognized Toghrul's authority by bestowing upon him the title of Sultan. This act officially legitimized the Seljuk rule and marked a significant shift in the political landscape of the Middle East. Toghrul's reign also saw the promotion of Sunni Islam and the development of administrative structures for the burgeoning empire. He died in 1063, leaving behind a vast and powerful empire that would go on to shape the history of the Middle East for centuries. His successor, his nephew Alp Arslan, would continue his expansionist policies.