How a displaced diaspora became a cornerstone of the Ottoman and Turkish states

Countries & Cities · Published 12 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Once exiled and facing heavy tolls during resettlement, Circassians have become one of Turkey's largest ethnic minorities. From serving in high Ottoman positions to founding modern Amman, their history is a complex tapestry of survival, cultural preservation, and deep political influence that continues to spark debate today.

The Circassian diaspora in Turkey is vast, with estimates placing the population at two million, while EU reports suggest it could reach three million. Historically, the group faced immense hardship following the Circassian genocide; exiles were often housed in caves, schools, or mosques, and many died during transit due to disease and poor conditions. Approximately 80,000 Circassians resided in 'death camps' near Varna, suffering from starvation and rampant illness. In Romania, they were granted specific privileges because of their faith. In Bulgaria, many families vanished entirely within a few years due to sickness.

Despite these struggles, Circassians played a pivotal role in the Ottoman Empire. They held high-ranking positions and were members of influential entities like the Ottoman Special Organization and the Committee of Union and Progress. This influence extended to the highest levels of power, with several Ottoman Sultans—including Abdul Hamid II, Mehmed V, and Mehmed VI—having Circassian mothers.

In the modern era, the community faces significant challenges regarding cultural preservation. While the Kabardians have preserved their language most effectively, UNESCO classifies Adyghe and Abkhazian as 'severely endangered' in Turkey. This is attributed to natural assimilation, intermarriage, and historical government policies, such as the post-1940s restrictions on the Circassian language, village names, and surnames. Today, the community remains a vital part of Turkey's social fabric, even as debates regarding their loyalty and cultural survival continue to emerge in public discourse. The community's presence is felt in various provinces, including Samsun, Ordu, and Kahramanmaraş. Even in the mid-20th century, local feuds involving Circassians persisted in the Levant.

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