Chagatai refers to a historical region and a Turkic language that was spoken in Central Asia, particularly in the area that is now Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. It was named after Chagatai Khan, the second son of Genghis Khan, and became prominent during the Mongol Empire. The Chagatai language served as a literary and administrative language in the region. The Chagatai Khanate was one of the four divisions of the Mongol Empire, established in the 13th century. It played a significant role in the cultural and political landscape of Central Asia, influencing trade and the spread of Islam. The region is known for its rich history, including notable figures like Ala al-Din Juvayni and Amir Timur.