THE DZUNGAR KHANATE DURING THE PERIOD OF GALDAN-BOSHOKTU AND GEOPOLITICAL CONTRADICTIONS

Abstract

The article explores the political history of the Dzungar Khanate in the final decades of the seventeenth century through the activities of Galdan-Boshoktu Khan. Particular attention is devoted to his domestic and foreign policies, the measures undertaken to consolidate central authority within the khanate, and the development of diplomatic relations with the Russian state and the Qing Empire. The study examines the circumstances surrounding Galdan’s accession to power, the process of political centralization in the Dzungar Khanate, his military expeditions to East Turkestan and the Khalkha territories, as well as the origins and progression of large-scale military confrontations with the Qing Empire. The findings of the research indicate that Galdan-Boshoktu’s geopolitical strategy was multidirectional in nature. On the one hand, he attempted to establish pragmatic and mutually advantageous relations with Russia, particularly concerning the issue of yasak collection. On the other hand, he pursued an active policy of military and political rivalry against the Qing Empire. Galdan’s 1688 campaign against Khalkha became a turning point that eventually developed into a major Oirat-Manchu conflict. The battles of Ulan-Butun in 1690 and Dzun-Mod in 1696 are regarded as decisive military engagements that significantly influenced the outcome of the war between the Dzungar Khanate and the Qing Empire.

The article further argues that Galdan’s defeat resulted from a combination of both internal and external circumstances, including the revolt of Tsevan-Rabdan, the submission of the Khalkha rulers to Qing authority, and the growing economic difficulties experienced by the Dzungar Khanate during prolonged warfare. The study contributes to a broader understanding of the geopolitical processes in Central Asia at the end of the seventeenth century and highlights the historical role of Galdan-Boshoktu in regional politics.