A Historical Study of the Inter-Baloch Tribal Wars: Tribal Division, Migration and Settlement of the Baloch in Punjab

Abstract

History is the study of facts under the philosophical concept that emerged after the 17^th century AD. The Baloch were a very important race in northern Iran, and they initially lived near the Caspian. They migrated to different places and then settled in Balochistan. A concept of authority was also identified among the Baloch tribes when they even settled in Sibi. It is a complex process of permanent settlement in different areas. The subject under consideration attempts to understand the inter-tribal wars between Baloch tribes not simply as political or military conflicts but in the broader context of tribal division and social formation. At different times, the differences between the tribes over resources, pastures, political influence, leadership and mutual rivalries gave rise to differences, as a result of which some tribes migrated from their traditional areas and settled in new geographical regions. These migrations not only affected the geographical distribution of Baloch tribes but also played an important role in the formation of new tribal affiliations, regional identities and social connections. This study examines the causes of tribal wars, the internal division that arose as a result of them, the migration of Baloch populations to different areas and the subsequent settlement. Particular attention is paid to how the continuous conflicts and political conditions changed tribal boundaries and residential centers. The process of migration played a role in the spread of Baloch tribes beyond Balochistan to Sindh, Punjab, Afghanistan and other areas, where they established diverse social, economic and political relationships with local societies.  Rind and Lashar were the sons of Mir Jalal Khan Baloch, and they occupied the fort of Sevi jointly. But the political supremacy forced them for intra-tribal war. The Rind and Lashar confrontation destroyed the power of the Baloch nation, and they received strategic support from Shah Hussain of Afghanistan and Somras of Sindh. Later, Afghans also occupied Kachi and the fort of Sibi. This pushed the Baloch towards Punjab and Sindh. Mir Gohram and Mir Chakar recognized important Baloch leaders. But some facts are also important which neglected by historians due to the political and ethnic influence of different tribes. This paper highlights the conflict among the Baloch tribes and also identifies some hidden facts which neglected by the historians of colonial inspiration or ethnic issues. This study makes it clear that the current geographical distribution of Baloch tribes is not the result of a single event but rather the result of a long-term interaction of wars, political changes, economic factors, tribal alliances and migration. Thus, tribal wars, migration and settlement are of fundamental importance for understanding the historical formation of Baloch society and its regional identity.