The name 'Black Sea' is widely attributed to the Anatolian Turks because they referred to the North as 'black' and the South as 'white'.
The Origins of the Name 'Black Sea'
The most widely cited explanation for the name 'Black Sea' comes from the Anatolian Turks. Their cultural practice involved assigning colors to the cardinal directions. In this system, 'black' was used for the North, and 'white' was used for the South. Since the sea is located to the north of Anatolia, it became known as the 'Black Sea'.
Historical Documentation
While the name's origin is largely attributed to this Turkish directional system, the appellation 'Black Sea' or a similar name appears in historical documents from other regions at relatively early dates. The reference notes:
- The name first appeared in a Hungarian document.
- It was also found later in sources originating further to the North, including Icelandic sagas and other Nordic narratives.
This indicates that the name was used in cultures beyond the Anatolian Turks, appearing in records from Hungary and the Nordic regions.
Summary of Naming Origin
Here's a brief overview based on the provided information:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Primary Attribution | Anatolian Turks (North = Black / South = White) |
| Earliest Record | Hungarian document |
| Other Early Records | Icelandic sagas, Nordic narratives |
This summary highlights the attributed reason for the name linked to Turkish culture, while also acknowledging its documented presence in other European historical records.
