HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL FOUNDATIONS OF THE FORMATION OF THE TURKIC ETHNONYM

This study examines the Turkic ethnonym's origins through an interdisciplinary analysis of written monuments and artifacts. First documented in the Turkic Khaganate era (VI-VIII centuries), the term derives from the ancient Turkic root törü- "to arise, to establish." The ethnonym's connection with the wolf mythologem - a key tribal totem - is argued, reflected in Kagan symbolism and rituals. A comparative analysis of Chinese ("Tu-kyue"), Greek ("Thrace"), and Near Eastern sources shows the term's polysemantic nature as an anthroponym, ethnonym, and political marker. The results highlight its role in forming a supra-ethnic identity relevant to globalization. This study contributes to understanding the cultural continuity mechanisms of Turkic peoples.