Khazars

The Khazars were a central Asian people who established a powerful empire in the 7th to 10th centuries, located around the Caspian Sea and the Volga River. They were originally nomadic and became a major trading hub, connecting various cultures. Notably, the Khazar elite converted to Judaism, making them unique among contemporary empires, which were typically Christian or Muslim. Their influence declined due to conflicts with emerging powers, and by the 10th century, their empire fragmented, leading to their gradual assimilation into neighboring cultures. The Khazars have been a subject of interest in history, particularly in relation to Jewish heritage.