Literacy rate in premodern Kurdistan (11th century-19th century)

Although many academics use the Ottoman census uncritically, particularly when estimating historical literacy rates, the literacy data itself is among the strongest indications that the census should be treated with caution. Conditions in the Middle East were almost certainly not as favorable as the figures suggest, nor even close to them. Nevertheless, despite its shortcomings, the census provides a useful starting point for what is arguably the first attempt to estimate the historical literacy rate of Kurdistan.

This represents the first attempt to estimate historical literacy rates in Kurdistan, as no previous study has addressed the subject in a systematic manner. A plausible estimate would place literacy somewhere between less than 1 percent of the population and as much as 10 percent of the male population, though the upper end of that range should be regarded as highly generous.

Literacy rates would have varied considerably depending on the dynasty and period in question. During some eras, particularly under the more prosperous Kurdish dynasties, study circles and educational institutions appear to have been relatively common, even in rural areas. It is tempting to assume a linear progression in which literacy steadily increased over time, but the historical evidence suggests a more complex picture.

Some of the earliest Kurdish dynasties flourished during periods of remarkable cultural and intellectual vitality. By contrast, later dynasties and eras may not have been able to establish or maintain educational institutions on the same scale as, for example, the Hasanwayhids. Political upheaval, demographic change, displacement, economic decline, and other historical contingencies could easily have led to lower literacy rates in certain later periods despite the passage of time.

Realizing the low literacy rate in the Middle East (despite the fantasy number of the Ottoman census), makes sense of the writings of many Kurdish intellectuals of the 19th century and the early 20th century. Their writings frequently addressed the value of education and literacy. Replicating the outcomes in the West was their aim. The first Kurdish newspaper (the Kurdistan newspaper) published this text in one of their articles:

I have always looked at our people; the Kurds and worried about them day and night; why most of the Kurds are removed from art and knowledge and why they are deprived of education, although they are talented and brave. These thoughts have been worrying me a lot but now for the common good, your newspaper is being published for the sake of Kurds.