Ulugh Muhammad assumed the title of khan in 1438 following the collapse of the Golden Horde. He usurped the throne of Kazan with assistance from local nobility to establish a new Tatar state. This event marked the end of Volga Bulgaria's direct rule and began a century of independent governance. The former territories regained a degree of autonomy within the disintegrating Mongol empire by the turn of the 15th century. A dynasty of Bolgar rulers had previously maintained self-governance before Ulugh Muhammad took power. His son Maxmud finalized the transfer of authority around 1445, solidifying the new political order.
Geography And Demographics
The Volga, Kama, and Vyatka rivers served as the main trade ways through the territory. Forests covered most of the land while only the southern part adjoined the steppe regions. The majority of the population were Kazan Tatars who identified themselves simply as Muslims or as the people of Kazan. Local feudal nobility consisted of ethnic Bulgars but the court included steppe Tatars known as Kipchaks and later Nogais. Peoples subject to the khanate included Chuvash, Mari, Mordvins, Mishar Tatars, Udmurt, and Bashkir groups. At least five languages were used in daily life including Tatar, Chuvash, Mari, Mordvin, and Bashkir. The written form was Old Tatar language which became the favored state tongue.Political Turmoil And Succession
Khans were replaced nineteen times over a span of one hundred fifteen years throughout the history. There were fifteen reigning khans with some ascending the throne multiple times during periods of instability. The Khan was often elected from the Gengizides by vernacular nobility and even by citizens themselves. Civil turmoil plagued the state with frequent struggles for the throne that weakened central authority. A group of disgruntled noblemen invited Şahğäli to occupy the throne in early 1551 after revolting against Safa Giray. Safa Giray executed seventy-five noblemen when he returned to power following his exile to Russia.