KANGJU Meaning and
Definition
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Kangju is the name of an ancient Central Asian nomadic kingdom that existed during the 1st century BCE to the 3rd century CE. Situated in what is modern-day Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan, Kangju was predominantly inhabited by the Kangju people, who were a Turkic-speaking tribe.
In terms of etymology, the name "Kangju" is believed to have originated from the Old Turkic word "kang," which means "walled city" or "city wall," and "ju," which means "people" or "tribe." Therefore, Kangju can be loosely translated as "the people of the walled city" or "the tribe living in the fortified settlement."
Kangju played a significant role in the region during its existence, as it was strategically located along the Silk Road, a major trade route connecting China with the West. As a result, Kangju became an important center for trade and cultural exchange between various civilizations, including the Chinese, Persians, and Sogdians.
Although the exact political structure of Kangju remains somewhat unclear due to the limited historical records available, it is generally believed to have been a confederation or a loose federation of various tribes. The Kangju people were renowned equestrians and skilled horsemen, known for their prowess in horseback riding and warfare.
Kangju eventually declined and disappeared from historical records by the 3rd century CE, possibly due to the expansion of neighboring tribes and the arrival of new political entities in the region. Nonetheless, the legacy of Kangju continues to captivate historians, archaeologists, and scholars interested in understanding the complex history of Central Asia.
Etymology of KANGJU
The word "Kangju" is derived from an ancient Central Asian people called the Kangju or Kangar. The Kangju were a nomadic tribe mentioned in various ancient Chinese and Persian sources. The name "Kangju" likely originated from their own self-designation, but its exact etymology and meaning are uncertain.
The Chinese records, specifically the "Shiji" (Records of the Grand Historian) by Sima Qian, describe the Kangju as one of the major tribes in the region during the 2nd century BCE. However, the origin of the name Kangju and the tribe itself goes back much further, possibly to the 5th or 4th century BCE.
It is important to note that the pronunciation and spelling of ancient words can vary, and different sources may have slightly different forms of the word "Kangju".
