The Russian Empire and the Muslim Population of the North Caucasus in the 2nd half of the 19th century: Problems and Successes of Integration

Abstract

In the second half of the 19th century, the process of formation of Russian state institutions continued in the North Caucasus, state control over Muslims was strengthened and the quality of governance was improving. The article discusses the features of government administration of the mountainous Muslim peoples of the Caucasus. The main approaches to Islam that had developed by the mid-19th century in the imperial authorities, government policies and specific management decisions of the Caucasian administration are analyzed. The authors draw on a wide range of research and archival materials. Despite the lack of a unified approach to confessional policy and the refusal to form a separate religious organization of North Caucasian Muslims, a relatively effective system of public administration is emerging in the region. The administration’s actions are based primarily on the principle of religious tolerance and the incorporation of Muslim clergy into the Russian elite; measures are being taken to ensure and respect the religious rights of Muslims and counteract destabilizing foreign influence. Among the mountain elites, the desire for integration and loyalty to the empire is increasing, which is manifested in increased interest in Russian education, culture, military and civil service.