Hazaras

Hazaras
Group	Hazaras
Popplace	Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, Turkey
Languages	Hazaragi, Dari, Pashto
Religions	Twelver Shia Islam

Hazaras are an ethnic group native to the central highlands of Afghanistan, primarily the region of Hazarajat. They are distinguished by their Mongoloid physical features and are predominantly adherents of Twelver Shia Islam, a significant religious minority in a predominantly Sunni country. Historically marginalized, they have faced severe persecution, leading to a significant global diaspora.

Origins and history

The origins are complex, with scholarly consensus pointing to a significant descent from Mongol and Turco-Mongol military contingents left in the region following the campaigns of Genghis Khan in the 13th century and later of Timur in the 14th century. These groups intermarried with local Iranian and Turkic populations. They established a semi-autonomous polity in Hazarajat, which was gradually incorporated into the modern state of Afghanistan during the late 19th century under Abdur Rahman Khan. His brutal campaigns in the 1890s, often termed a genocide, resulted in mass killings, enslavement, and forced displacement, cementing their subordinate status.

Demographics and distribution

Constituting approximately 9-20% of the population, they form the third-largest ethnic group in Afghanistan, with major communities in Kabul, Mazar-i-Sharif, and Herat, alongside their core territory in Hazarajat. Significant diaspora populations exist in neighboring Pakistan, particularly Quetta, and Iran, especially Mashhad. Since the late 20th century, large communities have been established in Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union nations due to ongoing conflict and persecution.

Language and culture

The primary language is Hazaragi, a distinct dialect of Dari (Persian) infused with a substantial number of Mongolic loanwords and unique phonetic features. Their rich cultural heritage includes traditions of Persian poetry, music like Dambura (a lute), and the celebration of Nowruz. Folklore often reflects both Persian and Mongolian themes, and their cuisine features dishes like Halawah-e Sart and Mantu.

Religion

Overwhelmingly, they adhere to Twelver Shia Islam, which distinguishes them from the majority Sunni population of Afghanistan and has been a primary factor in their historical persecution. A smaller minority, particularly in parts of Hazarajat like Dai Zangi, follow the Isma'ili Shia tradition. Their religious practices incorporate elements of Ashura commemorations and pilgrimages to local shrines, maintaining strong theological and cultural ties with the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Society and politics

Traditionally organized along tribal and clan lines, such as the Dai Zangi, Dai Kundi, and Besud, society has a strong emphasis on communal solidarity. In contemporary Afghan politics, figures like Abdul Ali Mazari, founder of the Hezb-e Wahdat party, became iconic symbols of political mobilization. They have been active participants in the post-2001 Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, with representatives in the National Assembly and serving in high-ranking positions, including as ministers and ambassadors.

Persecution and diaspora

They have faced systematic discrimination and violence throughout modern Afghan history, notably during the rule of the Taliban. The 1998 massacre in Mazar-i-Sharif and targeted attacks by Islamic State – Khorasan Province are stark examples. This persecution has driven large-scale migration, creating a global diaspora that maintains strong transnational networks. Diaspora communities are active in advocacy through organizations like the Hazara Committee and have produced notable international figures such as author Khaled Hosseini and former Australian rules football player Bachar Houli.

Category:Ethnic groups in Afghanistan Category:Muslim communities Category:Persian-speaking peoples and ethnic groups