The Köktürk Khaganates were a series of Turkic states that emerged in the 6th century CE in Central Asia. They played a significant role in the history of the region, uniting various Turkic tribes under a centralized authority. The first khanate was established by Bumin Khagan in 552 CE, marking the beginning of Turkic political power in the area. The Köktürk Khaganates were known for their military prowess and extensive trade networks, which connected them to neighboring cultures. They used the Orkhon script for writing and left behind important inscriptions that provide insight into their society and governance. The khaganates eventually split into eastern and western branches, influencing the development of later Turkic states.