SOCIO-POLITICAL LIFE OF THE FERGANA VALLEY IN THE 17TH CENTURY AS REFLECTED IN HISTORICAL SOURCES

Abstract

The article examines the factors that contributed to the study of Amir Temur’s history by French Orientalists of the sixteenth century. During this period, the growing power of the Habsburg dynasty in Germany posed a serious threat to both France and the Ottoman Empire. As a result, diplomatic relations were established between the two states. French diplomats began visiting Constantinople in the 1530s. During their diplomatic missions, these envoys were impressed by the policy of religious tolerance practiced in the Ottoman state. This was particularly noteworthy because France was experiencing intense religious conflicts at the time. In an effort to put an end to the struggle between Catholics and Protestants, the French government encouraged Oriental scholars to study the statecraft and political activities of great rulers of the past, especially Amir Temur. The policy of tolerance pursued by Sahibqiran (Amir Temur) was analyzed by French Orientalists through a comparative study of other historical rulers, and the results of these investigations were reflected in their scholarly works.