Tabriz: A group of young authors in South Azerbaijan has successfully published a book on Azerbaijani identity, overcoming numerous challenges to bring their work to fruition. The authors, motivated by a desire to explore and assert their cultural heritage, funded the publication themselves after initially facing hesitation from local publishing houses.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the book emerged as part of the broader “Explore South Azerbaijan” project, which previously hosted articles such as “Historians Fighting for Azerbaijani Identity in Iran” and “A Book About Armenian Atrocities in South Azerbaijan.” These works have been instrumental in discussing Azerbaijani-centric historiography and its role in shaping collective identity in the region.
The idea for this book originated in the late 1990s during a period of heightened interest among the Turkic people of South Azerbaijan in national identity and self-reclamation. This was during the presidency of Mohammad Khatami, a period marked by increased freedom of expression and a surge in the publication of books, magazines, and newspapers. The book aims to answer pressing questions among the youth, such as “Who am I?” and “What does it mean to be Azerbaijani?” amid a scarcity of literature addressing these issues at the time.
The authors, including Mohammad Rahmanifar, faced significant obstacles in their quest to gather information and resources. Despite the challenges posed by censorship and limited access to relevant books, they persevered, driven by a shared desire to uncover and document their history and identity. Their efforts culminated in a comprehensive work reflecting the inquiries and aspirations of the younger generation.
The publication process was further complicated by initial reluctance from local publishers to take on the project. However, this hurdle was overcome through a pre-sale strategy that saw over 800 copies sold before the official release, demonstrating the book’s appeal among university students and young people eager to learn about their heritage. This overwhelming support eventually led a publishing house to offer to publish the book at no cost, although the authors had already secured the necessary funds.
The book’s success is a testament to the determination and unity of the Azerbaijani youth, who played a crucial role not only in its creation but also in its promotion. The first edition, consisting of 3,300 copies, sold out within three months, prompting a second edition. Despite facing pressure due to the book’s impact and wide readership, the authors remain proud of their achievement, viewing it as a significant contribution to the contemporary history of South Azerbaijani Turks.