Modern Armenian History Overview

Modern Armenian History

Modern Armenian history is characterized by a mix of political, social, and cultural developments that have shaped the nation's identity and its relationship with neighboring states. This period began with the transition from Ottoman rule to Russian rule, which marked the beginning of the 19th century.

Ottoman Rule and Transition to Russian Rule (1804–1914)

The first half of the 19th century saw the advance of the Russians into the Caucasus, with the Persians acknowledging Russia's authority over Georgia, northern Azerbaijan, and Karabakh in 1813. This period also saw the opening of the Lazaryan School in Moscow in 1815 and the Nersisyan School in Tiflis in 1824. The Russian advance continued with the Treaty of Turkmenchay in 1828, which made most of Eastern Armenia part of the Russian Empire.

Armenian National Liberation Movement

The 19th century saw the emergence of the Armenian National Liberation Movement, which sought to address the abuses against the Armenian population in the Ottoman Empire. Key events during this period include the Zeytun uprising in 1862 and the adoption of the Armenian National Constitution in 1863. The movement was further fueled by the publication of Mshak in Tiflis in 1872.

Armed Movement (1889–1907)

The armed movement was a period of resistance and rebellion against the oppressive Ottoman and Russian governments. Key events during this period include the Bashkale clash in 1889, the founding of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation in Tiflis in 1890, and the Mkrtich Khrimian's election as Catholicos of All Armenians in 1894.

World War I and Armenian Genocide (1914–1918)

The greatest tragedy in modern Armenian history was the Armenian genocide during World War I. Hundreds of thousands of Armenians were driven from their homes, marched until they died, or massacred by the Ottoman government as part of a plan to deport the entire Armenian population. This period saw the Russian capture of Sarikamish, Ardahan, and other territories in the Caucasus.

Soviet Era (1918–1991)

After the fall of the Russian Empire, Armenia declared sovereignty on August 23, 1990, and independence on September 23, 1991. During the Soviet era, Armenia experienced relative security from its neighbors, significant economic development, and cultural and educational achievements. However, full expression of Armenian national aspirations was impossible under the imposed Soviet regime.

Post-Soviet Era (1991–Present)

The post-Soviet era has been marked by the formation of the Commonwealth of Independent States and the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Despite these challenges, Armenia has continued to assert its identity and sovereignty on the international stage.

In conclusion, modern Armenian history is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Armenian people. It is a story of struggle for national identity, cultural preservation, and survival amidst the ever-changing geopolitical landscape of the Caucasus.