Naqu
Born: Unknown Died: c. 1251 Reigned: 1248 - 1251 Khanate: Ögedeid Khanate Title: Regent
Overview
Naqu was a son of Güyük Khan who served as regent of the Ögedeid household during the interregnum that followed his father's death in 1248. His brief period of authority corresponded to the contested succession that ultimately resulted in Möngke Khan, a Toluide, claiming the throne of the Mongol Empire — a shift that permanently redirected imperial power away from the Ögedeid line.
Historical sources on Naqu are limited, as he was primarily a political figure during a transitional moment rather than an independent ruler of consequence. The interregnum of 1248 to 1251 was dominated by factional struggles between the Ögedeid and Toluide branches of the Chinggisid family, and Naqu represented the interests of the Ögedeid claimants during this period.
His regency ended when Möngke successfully convened a kurultai in 1251 and was elected Great Khan. The Toluide triumph meant the eclipse of Ögedeid political power at the imperial level, though Ögedeid princes retained their appanages and continued as regional rulers for decades.
Rise to Power
Naqu assumed a caretaker role following his father Güyük Khan's death in April 1248. Güyük had reigned for less than two years, and his sudden death left the empire without clear leadership. Naqu, as a son of the deceased khan, held nominal authority over the Ögedeid household and its territories during the interregnum.
Rule and Achievements
- Maintained Ögedeid household authority during the succession dispute following Güyük's death
- Represented the interests of the Ögedeid branch in the factional struggles leading to Möngke's election
- Presided over Ögedeid territories in Central Asia during his brief regency
The interregnum was a period of intense political maneuvering. Ögedeid and Chagataid factions opposed the elevation of Möngke, and the situation came close to open conflict. The Toluide coalition ultimately prevailed, and Naqu's regency effectively ended with Möngke's formal enthronement.
Legacy
Naqu is a marginal figure in Mongol history, significant mainly as a marker of the transition from Ögedeid to Toluide dominance at the imperial level. His regency represented the last moment of Ögedeid preeminence in central Mongol politics. After Möngke's accession, the Ögedeid line would never again hold the title of Great Khan. Naqu's descendants remained among the Ögedeid princes of Central Asia but lost their claim to imperial primacy.