3 things you may not know about Qizilbash !

Inputs by : Samiya Shakir

Origins and Composition — Qizilbash originated primarily from seven major Turkic-speaking tribes (including Shamlu, Ustajlu, Rumlu, Afshar, Qajar, Tekelu, and Zulkadar) in regions like Azerbaijan, eastern Anatolia, and surrounding areas. These tribes united under the Safaviyya Sufi order, blending nomadic Turkic traditions .

Role in the Safavid Empire — The Qizilbash were the primary military force that helped Shah Ismail I establish the Safavid dynasty in 1501, making Shia Islam the state religion of Iran (Persia) for the first time in centuries. They served as elite warriors and cavalry, forming the backbone of the Safavid army and aristocracy, and were instrumental in conquering and unifying much of the region against Sunni powers like the Ottomans.

Symbolism and Legacy — Their iconic red headwear signified devotion to Shaykh Haydar (father of Shah Ismail) and the Twelve Imams. Over time, the term "Qizilbash" became associated with Shia communities in Iran, Afghanistan (where some descendants form a distinct Persian-speaking group), and elsewhere, though their political power declined as the Safavids centralized authority.