Chonos, Taichiud, Khashikhanar: In Search of a Common Denominator (With Evidence from R2a-M124 Y-STR Haplotypes of Kalmyks)

Introduction. Despite the centuries-long research, ethnic history of Kalmyks (Oirats) and Mongols at large still contains a number of unanswered questions. Recent academic insights into gene pools of Eurasian and, specifically, Mongolian peoples may be instrumental in revising some aspects of history, refuting others, and confirming the remainder. The Kalmyk gene pool investigation has so far been reduced to the level of sub-ethnic groups, while it is that of clans claiming common patrilineal descent which seems most promising when it comes to the study of Turko-Mongolian nomads. Goals. The paper attempts an analysis of Kalmyk R2a-M124 Y-STR haplotypes by clans and articulates a hypothesis as to possible ethnohistorical roots of the lineage. Materials. The study examines a total of forty three STR haplotypes of the mentioned Y-chromosomal subclade identified by Kalmyk Scientific Center (RAS) with the aid of AmpFLSTR YfilerTM Plus PCR Reagents. Results. The study shows bearers of the subclade largely represent Kalmyk clans with names containing the lexical unit ‘chonos’, and ones attesting to the clans had been founded by some noblemen, namely: Taichiud (Kalm. тәәҗүд ‘tayijis, princes’), Khashikhanar (Kalm. хашхнр ‘chiefs of appanages, governors’), Saiduud (Kalm. сәәдүд ‘superior ones, noblemen’), Kha(а)nud (Kalm. хаануд ‘Khans, rulers’). The paper articulates a hypothesis suggesting the lineage may descend from rulers of the Khoid Oirats and via the latter — from Quduqa-bäki of the medieval Oyïrad, and even further up to Duwa-soqor and the legendary ancestor of all Mongols — Bӧrtä-Čïno.

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