Chupan

Amir Chupan, also known as Choban or Coban (امیر چوپان سلدوز), (d. November 1327), was a Chupanid noble of the Ilkhanate, and nominal general of the Mongol Empire. His father was named Malek of Mongol Suldus clan. His ancestor was Chilaun (Чулуун) who was one of Chingis Khan's four great companions.

Rise to Power

Amir Coban was first mentioned as a supporter of Gaykhatu during the latter's successful campaign for the Ilkhanid throne. During Ghazan's march to the throne in 1295, Coban met with him near the Ustunavand castle. Coban served under Ghazan, participating in the campaign against the rebel Nauruz. He acted as a senior commander during Ghazan's three campaigns against Syria, then under the rule of the Mamelukes. During one of these campaigns, Coban's army, under the command of Ghazan's chief military officer Qutlugh Shah, was defeated by the Mamelukes in the battle of Marjal Suffar (1303). When Qutlugh fled, Coban stayed with the army, and reached Ghazan in June. Ghazan, furious at the defeat, punished both Qutlugh and Coban, though the latter was dealt with more leniently.

In 1305 Coban married the daughter of Ghazan's successor Öljeitü, Dowlandi Katun. In 1307 he was given command of one of four armies assigned to quell the rebellious province of Gilan. Marching from Ardabil, he convinced the rulers of Astara and Gaskar to surrender peacefully, and then met up with Öljeitü. Qutlugh Shah's army, however, did not fare so well, and he was...
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