The history of the Kurdish people dates back thousands of years, with their origins linked to ancient civilizations in the Middle East. They primarily inhabit regions in Turkey, Iraq, Iran, and Syria, known as Kurdistan. Throughout history, the Kurds have maintained a distinct cultural identity, language, and traditions despite facing various challenges and conflicts. In the 20th century, the Kurds sought greater autonomy and recognition, particularly after the fall of the Ottoman Empire. The aftermath of World War I and the subsequent treaties, such as the Treaty of Sèvres, initially promised Kurdish independence, but this was largely unfulfilled. Today, the Kurdish struggle for rights and self-determination continues, with significant political movements and armed groups like the PKK in Turkey and the Peshmerga in Iraq.