Seljuk Turks

The Seljuk Turks were a Central Asian group who emerged in the 10th century and became influential in the Middle East. They played a key role in expanding Islamic culture and power, especially after their victory over the Byzantine Empire at the Battle of Manzikert in 1071. This opened the way for Turkic tribes to settle in Anatolia, leading to the eventual rise of the Ottoman Empire. The Seljuk Empire was significant for its contributions to art, architecture, and the spread of Persian culture, as well as for fostering trade and education during the medieval period.