2. 2
HISTORY OF SEYMENS
Seymen was a rank in the Seljuk military, introduced at the time of the Battle of Manzikert
in 1071. After their victory, Seymens became protectors of Turkic tribes which had started
to settle all around Anatolia.
They were used as a police force in Konya (a city in Turkey) for a time, but were shortly
disbanded after the Mongol Invasion, to be introduced by the Ottoman Empire in the 13th
century.
In Ottoman society, the
Seymen tradition continued
to exist as a paramilitary
youth organization. They
were known for their unique
uniforms and arms. During
the Turkish Independence
War, Seymens took up arms
once again and fought
against the invading forces.
Ankara, the stronghold of Seymens, ultimately became the capital of the new Turkish
Rebuplic.
Seymens welcome
Ataturk, 27th December
1919 Ankara
3. 3
Seymens' Tradition
Seymen means “young armed man" in Turkish. Those young armed men come together
and form “Seymen Procession". This procession used to protect caravans, elect the new
leader or even establish a new state in extraordinary situations (the current leader’s death,
invasions, etc.). But after moving to settled life, they start to protect just their own village
and city.
Seymens have their own dance and clothings. Nowadays, Seymens often dance in
organizations that Ankara Club organises.
Ankara Club Logo
Seymens Today
Clothing
Seymens wear traditional clothes. They wear leather shoes,
mohair socks, pants called “zıvga”, a shawl wrapped around
waist, a shirt (shirt's color is optional) and a vest called
“camadan”. Also they have a case to put and carry their armors.
4. 4
Traditional Dance
Seymens’ dance is full of swaggering. They show it with their moves. They turn around,
look at each other, keeping the rhythm with feet moves etc. Seymens' dance don't have a
specific song, there are many songs that accompanied with traditional Turkish instrument
“bağlama”. But the theme is always the same.
Seymens are dancing to "Misket" Song
Seymens are dancing to "Atım Arap" Song
Prepared by: Pınar Kılar, Different but Together Turkish Team
