Iranian, Afghan or Central Asian? Patterns of mobility among Persianate Jews in the 19th and early 20th centuries

Nineteenth-century Persian Jews were not isolated but part of interconnected yet distinct communities, with mobility patterns involving Central Asian, Afghan, and Iranian Jews shaping their identities. This study challenges traditional notions of 'center' and 'periphery,' highlighting Merv's role as a hub for Jewish trade, marriage, and cultural exchange. By analyzing interactions with local tribes, governors, and religious authorities, the research reveals how Persian-speaking Jews contributed to socio-economic environments across regions, offering new insights into transregional community formation and global history.

Sadjed, A. (2024). Iranian, Afghan or Central Asian? Patterns of mobility among Persianate Jews in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Central Asian Survey, 44(2), 183–201. https://doi.org/10.1080/02634937.2024.2339389