About Kalmyks

The Kalmyks are a unique ethnic group with a rich history and culture. As the only Mongolic people to have settled in Europe, they primarily reside in the Republic of Kalmykia in Russia. Despite numerous historical challenges, including migrations and deportations, the Kalmyks have preserved their distinct language, traditions, and Tibetan Buddhist faith. The name "Kalmyk" derives from a Turkic word meaning "remnant" or "those who remained," referring to their status as the enduring descendants of the Mongol Empire in Europe. [1]

Kalmyk History: Origins, Migration, and Resilience

The Kalmyks are a Mongolic ethnic group, descendants of the Oirats (Western Mongols), who originated from the pastures of Central Asia, specifically the region known as Jungaria (between the Altai and Tien Shan mountains in western Inner Asia). [2] Their early history ties closely to the broader Mongol narrative, as they were among the "forest peoples" living west of the main Mongol tribes during the time of Genghis Khan. In 1207, the Oirats submitted to Genghis Khan and played significant roles in the expansion of the Mongol Empire, contributing to its military campaigns. [3]

Following the fragmentation of the Mongol Empire in the 14th century, the Oirats formed their own confederation and emerged as a powerful force in Central Asia, often rivaling eastern Mongol tribes.[3] By the 15th century, under leaders like Güyük Khan, they unified various Mongol groups and engaged in conflicts, including the Mongol-Oirat wars from 1471 to 1488. [2] Comprising four major tribes—Dzungar (Choros or Olots), Torghut, Dörbet, and Khoshut—the Oirats maintained a nomadic lifestyle centered on cattle breeding, while preserving rich cultural traditions such as proverbs, songs, poetry, dance, and arts. [3]

A pivotal moment came in the early 17th century when many Oirats migrated westward from western Mongolia to the lower Volga region in Eastern Europe, fleeing internal conflicts and seeking new pastures. This migration, around 1630, marked the beginning of their settlement in what is now Russia, where they became known as the Kalmyks. [4] As nomadic herders, they lived mainly as cattle breeders in the Caspian region, establishing the Kalmyk Khanate and adopting Tibetan Buddhism, making them the only traditionally Buddhist people in Europe. In 1798, the first stationary Kalmyk Buddhist monastery was built in Tsagan Aman, initiated by Orchi Lama, highlighting their deep religious ties. [5]

The Kalmyks faced significant challenges in Russia. In 1771, a portion migrated back to Central Asia due to pressures from the Russian Empire, but many remained and integrated, serving in roles like the Kalmyk Cossacks until the Bolshevik Revolution. [6]

During World War II, under Stalin, the entire Kalmyk population was deported to Siberia in 1943 on accusations of collaboration with the Nazis, leading to immense suffering and loss of life. They were allowed to return in 1957, and the Republic of Kalmykia was re-established in 1958. [7]

Today, the Kalmyks primarily reside in the Republic of Kalmykia, a federal subject of Russia, where they continue to preserve their unique identity through nomadic heritage, Buddhism, and cultural practices despite historical emigration and hardships. [8] The republic's capital, Elista, serves as a cultural hub, and the Kalmyks remain resilient, blending their Mongol roots with Russian influences.

Kalmyks have established communities worldwide, with significant populations in the United States. Early settlements formed in Howell, New Jersey, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and today, these vibrant communities continue to flourish in those regions, as well as in Brooklyn and across various cities and states, including California.

About Kalmyks.com

Kalmyks.com is dedicated to connecting the Kalmyk community worldwide. Our mission is to preserve and promote Kalmyk culture, history, and language through engaging content, community interaction, and events.

Our Vision

We aim to be the central hub for Kalmyks, offering resources, news, and a space to share stories, photos, and traditions. Whether you're in Kalmykia, Europe, the US, or elsewhere, Kalmyks.com intends to bring us together.

 

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