Berke
Mongolia- Berke Khan: The Muslim Mongol Ruler
- Rise to Power
- Conversion to Islam
- Support for Möngke
- Rule as Khan
- Conflict with Hulagu
- Legacy
Berke Khan: The Muslim Mongol Ruler
Early Life and CareerBerke, the third son of Jochi, was likely born in the 1200s to one of his Mongolian wives. As a young prince, he participated in the 1229 kuriltai that declared Ögedei as Great Khan. In 1236, he joined his brother Batu in the Mongol invasion of Europe, where he played a significant role.
Rise to Power
After returning from Europe, Berke was granted a portion of the Jochi Ulus that included the North Caucasian steppes. In 1254, however, Batu took back these lands and ordered Berke to move east of the Volga River.
Conversion to Islam
Around the 1240s, Berke converted to Islam. This move was met with respect at the 1251 kuriltai and led to the prohibition of eating pork in his court. Some sources suggest that he studied the Quran with a Sufi шейх in Bukhara.
Support for Möngke
Berke and his brothers represented Batu at the 1246 kuriltai where Güyük was proclaimed Great Khan. After Batu's death in 1255, Berke supported the election of Möngke, a Toluid prince, to the throne. He played a crucial role in the purge of Chagatai and Ögedei loyalists following Möngke's accession.
Rule as Khan
In 1257, Berke became the ruler of the Jochi Ulus after the deaths of Sartaq and Ulagchi. He adopted a conciliatory policy towards the Golden Horde, reinforcing its control over the Russian principalities.
Conflict with Hulagu
Berke allied with the Egyptian Mamluks against his rival, Hulagu, the Ilkhan of Iran. He accused Hulagu of supporting the Chagatai prince Alghu, who had sought revenge against Berke. This conflict marked a period of division within the Mongol Empire.
Legacy
Berke's rule strengthened the autonomy of the Jochi Ulus. He promoted Islam within his domain and played a significant role in consolidating the political and economic power of the Golden Horde. His conversion to Islam and his support for Möngke left a lasting impact on the development of Mongol history and the relationship between the Mongols and Islam.
