Introduction
The presence of Muslims in Armenia is a subject often debated and discussed. Unlike the large Muslim populations in countries like Iran, there is a much smaller Muslim Armenian community. This article delves into the historical and current aspects of the Muslim Armenian community, providing insights into their numbers, origins, and cultural integration.
The Current Numbers of Muslims in Armenia
According to available estimates, the total number of Muslims living in Armenia is relatively small. The overall count of native Muslims in Armenia is far fewer than the number of Armenians living in predominantly Muslim countries. For instance, the Armenian population in Turkey is estimated to be approximately 15,000 to 20,000, with additional temporary workers in the eastern provinces.
It is important to note that these figures are approximations as Census laws in Armenia do not permit the enquirement of ethnic background or religious beliefs. However, this minority community has a significant presence in certain regions, particularly in the eastern provinces such as Van, where a population numbering around 45,000 to 55,000 now resides.
Historical Integration of Muslims in Armenia
The history of Muslims in Armenia is deeply intertwined with its political and cultural evolution. Since the year 1071, when Armenians and Turks fought alongside each other in the Battle of Manzikert against the Byzantine Empire, a period of relative peace followed. Following the Battle of Manzikert, Muslim Oghuz Turks from the region of Anatolia settled in the area, coexisting peacefully with the Armenian population.
During the Ottoman Empire, Armenians were designated as loyal citizens and were even employed in high government positions. Many historical buildings in the region were constructed by Armenian architects. However, relations between Muslims and Christians began to deteriorate after Western powers incited Armenians against the Ottomans. This was a classic strategy of divide and conquer, orchestrated by Western powers, which led to significant hardship for the local population.
The question of the number of Muslim Armenians is nearly impossible to track accurately over a thousand-year period. Additionally, there is a significant presence of Christinized Turks within the Armenian population. For instance, the word 'Ermen' is a Turkic term. Before the advent of Islam, many Kipchak Turks mixed with Armenians, leading to the assimilation of original non-Turkish Armenians. These Hays were eventually integrated into the Christian Turkic community.
Muslim Integration in the East Anatolian Region
The eastern region of Anatolia, which includes areas bordering Armenia, has seen a significant integration of Muslims into the local Armenian culture. Today, the ethnic diversity in this region is such that it is difficult to distinguish between Armenians and Turks, both culturally and physically. This region is particularly rich in Armenian heritage, and genetic studies reveal that the local population shares a close genetic distance with the old Armenians of Armenia, suggesting a continuous cultural and genetic link.
During the process of Islamization of Anatolia, numerous Armenians converted to Islam and assimilated into the Turkish community. The western region of East Anatolia, particularly around Van, is home to a high proportion of Armenians who have been integrated into the Turkish culture. Studies have shown that this integration has led to a strong epigenetic and cultural connection between Armenians and Turks.
The Impact of Ethnic Cleansing and Modern Migration
When Armenia was formed as an independent nation, one of its first acts was to deport remaining Muslim populations. The original population of Armenia included ethnic groups such as Kipchaks, Cumans, Oghuz Turks, Huns, and various other groups of people. Over time, some of these groups remained in Armenia, while others migrated to Karabagh, and some were spread across regions as far as Egypt and Syria, being known as Mamluks or Turkmen.
Today, the Armenians living in Armenia are primarily of Persian origin and have noticeable genetic, cultural and physical traits. They arrived in Armenia in 1830 from Eastern Persia and are often described as resembling Pasinyan, a popular modern Armenian figure, which reflects their brown skin tone and other physical characteristics.
Conclusion
The historical and current presence of Muslim Armenians in Armenia is a complex and historically significant phenomenon. The journey from interfaith coexistence to religious and ethnic differentiation has left a lasting impact on the region. As Armenians and Turks continue to navigate their shared history, understanding and appreciation of these cultural and religious intersections remain crucial for fostering mutual respect and cooperation.