Meliks of Karabakh

In 16th-18th centuries: princes of Artsakh province. They played an outstanding role in the Armenian national liberation movement. In 1724, when the Ottoman troops invaded Artsakh, the Meliks rapidly formed the effective armed forces to put up a stout resistance. Even though the Turks dominated Eastern Armenia, Karabakh remained independent. Later, the numerous Meliks of Artsakh united into the 5 major principalities, forming the so-called Country of Five.

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