Shirin-bek Jevanshir

Shirin-bek Jevanshir

Azerbaijani military figure
Date of Birth: 10.05.1760
Country: Azerbaijan

Content:
  1. Shirin-bek: An Azeri Military Leader
  2. Role under Panah Ali-khan
  3. Reign of Muhammad-bek
  4. Alliance with Ibrahim Khalil-khan
  5. Service in the Russo-Persian War (1804-1813)
  6. Legacy and Family

Shirin-bek: An Azeri Military Leader

Early Life and Lineage

Shirin-bek, an esteemed Azeri military figure of the 18th and 19th centuries, was born into the Jevanshir dynasty. His father, Safi-khan Jevanshir, hailed from the Jaglavend tribe, a noble clan. Shirin-bek's lineage had once held power, but their reign ended after a war with Panah Ali-khan.

Role under Panah Ali-khan

Despite the loss of family power, Shirin-bek retained his status as Kalantar. He maintained his position and influence under the successors of Panah Ali-khan Jevanshir, weathering the tumultuous events that plagued Karabakh during the late 18th century.

Reign of Muhammad-bek

In 1797, Agha Muhammad Shah Qajar captured Karabakh and appointed Muhammad-bek, a nephew and rival of Ibrahim Khalil-khan, as khan. Muhammad-bek, a formidable figure, had long coveted the throne. However, after the assassination of Agha Muhammad Shah, Muhammad-bek turned against his supporters, killing Vizier Vagif and his son.

Alliance with Ibrahim Khalil-khan

Shirin-bek's influence grew towards the end of the 18th century, and he joined forces with the sons of Mehr Ali-khan Jevanshir, who aimed to limit the power of Ibrahim Khalil-khan, Panah Ali-khan's son. However, Ibrahim Khalil-khan's return to power proved short-lived. Muhammad-bek fled Karabakh and sought refuge in Sheki, where he was apprehended by Muhammadhasan-khan Shekinski and handed over to Mustafa-khan Shamakhinski. Mustafa-khan executed Muhammad-bek, avenging the killing of his father. Shirin-bek was pardoned by Ibrahim Khalil-khan, though fined 5,000 tumans.

Service in the Russo-Persian War (1804-1813)

From 1804 to 1813, Shirin-bek distinguished himself in the Russo-Persian War. He served in the Karabakh cavalry, playing a pivotal role in the conflict. General A. P. Tormasov, recognizing the value of the Karabakh cavalry, repeatedly requested its assistance. Shirin-bek's military prowess and his contributions to the war effort were lauded by Tormasov and other Russian generals.

Legacy and Family

Shirin-bek passed away in 1819 and was laid to rest in the village of Jaglavend. His family continued to prosper, with his sons and daughters leaving a lasting legacy in Karabakh. His wife, Matan-khanum, supported his military endeavors and played a significant role in the family's affairs.

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