The Role of the Tatars in the Socio-Political Life of Semirechye at the beginning of the XX century

Abstract

This article examines the role of the Tatars in the social and political process of a single region within the Russian Empire. We are talking about one of the main geographical and historical places in Central Asia - Semirechye. In particular, materials are collected and archival data on the activities of the Semirechye Tatars in the early XX century is given. The Russo-Japanese War and the First Russian Revolution that followed became a turning point in the empire. Moreover, this article provides some data regarding the role of the Tatars in this historical moment and their influence on the mood of the local population. It is worth noting separately the contribution of the Tatars to local education and enlightenment. The well-known Tatar merchant and philanthropist Iskhak Gabdulvaliev plays a special role. He was one of the first to open a new-method (Jadid) school in Semirechye, which was nicknamed Ishaki by the people. Iskhak Gabdulvaliev and his relatives were not so far from the political life of the region and the empire, in particular. They were well aware of the latest developments due to good connections both in Russia itself and beyond its borders. In addition, this article reflects archival materials confirming such data. It is worth noting that bookstores and libraries opened by the Tatars also played a huge role in the enlightenment of the people of Semirechye. In which various books, newspapers, and magazines from different parts of the empire were sold and discussed. However, after reading this article, you can understand that the censorship of the empire and endless checks have become a real obstacle to further development.