1. Gaykhatu: Fifth Ilkhan of the Ilkhanate
2. Foreign Policy
3. Domestic Policy
4. Monetary Crisis and Downfall
5. Death and Legacy
6. Family

Gaykhatu: Fifth Ilkhan of the Ilkhanate

Early Life and Rise to Power

Gaykhatu, whose name means "Precious Dorje," was the fifth Ilkhan of the Ilkhanate, reigning from 1291 to 1295. He was the son of Ilkhan Abaqa and Nukdan Khatun. Upon the accession of his brother Arghun in 1284, Gaykhatu became the governor of Anatolia.

After Arghun's death, Gaykhatu's candidacy for the throne was considered alongside Ghazan and Baydu. Despite Baydu's initial support, Gaykhatu was ultimately elected Ilkhan on July 23, 1291. A secondary ceremony in June 1292 confirmed his election by Kublai Khan, the nominal overlord of the Ilkhanate.

Foreign Policy

In terms of foreign policy, Gaykhatu's reign was relatively uneventful. Ilkhanate forces arrived too late to prevent the Mamluk Sultan Al-Ashraf Khalil from capturing the fortress of Qal'at al-Rum in 1292. However, the Mamluks did not pursue their advantage, and there were no further hostilities in the coming years. In 1294, a peace proposal was received from Tokhta, the Khan of the Golden Horde.

Domestic Policy

Gaykhatu sought to establish peace among the various religious communities in the Ilkhanate. He granted official status to representatives of different faiths and honored the leaders of all doctrines, including Christians, Muslims, Jews, and pagans. In contrast to his predecessor, Gaykhatu favored Muslims. He bestowed the title of "Sadr-i Jahan" ("Pillar of the World") on his chief advisor, Sadr al-Din Zenjani. Sadr al-Din was granted unprecedented control over the treasury, effectively sidelining Mongolian emirs from government.

Gaykhatu also made lavish gifts to members of the royal family and emirs. However, this generosity and neglect of governance led to an empty treasury and widespread dissent.

Monetary Crisis and Downfall

In an attempt to address the financial crisis, Gaykhatu introduced paper money (chao) with forced currency, similar to the Chinese model. However, this measure only exacerbated the economic crisis and undermined his authority.

Gaykhatu's personal conduct was also a factor in his downfall. He was described as a debauched monarch, engaging in illicit relationships with children of Mongolian nobility. Despite his charisma and generosity, his disregard for advice and insult to Baydu led to his demise.

Death and Legacy

In 1294, Baydu revolted and killed Gaykhatu's appointed governor of Baghdad. Gaykhatu was captured and executed on March 24, 1295.

Gaykhatu's reign was a brief and turbulent period in the history of the Ilkhanate. His lack of administrative skills and indulgence ultimately cost him his throne.

Family

Wives:
Aisha Khatun
Sons:
Hasan
Daughters:
Bulghan Khatun (married Baydu)

Statesmen