Introduction / History The Qashqa'i (pronounced KASH-kai) are a
nomadic people who roam across the harsh deserts of southwest
Iran. Although they are made up of many different linguistic,
cultural, and tribal origins, they all call themselves "Turks."
Qashqai Turki, their spoken language, does not yet exist in
written form; most of them communicate in the Farsi language
instead. We know very little about their history, except that
the Qashqa'i left central Asia in the 11th century AD and began
entering Iran. Nothing else is recorded about them until the
mid-18th century when the ruler of southern Iran appointed a
Qashqa'i as the tribal leader of a province. The Qashqa'i are
considered a minority people group in Iran. Forceful attempts
have been made to incorporate them into the mainstream of
Iranian society; however, such efforts have failed, and these
fascinating people have remained independent and proud. Although
the Qashqa'i are professing Muslims, they have little use for
organized religion beyond politi