LAND DIVISION OF THE WESTERN ARMENIAN REFUGEES ON THE DON IN 1920s-1930s

Abstract

The article deals with the Soviet state policy on land division of the Western Armenian refugees on the Don in 1920s-1930s. The lands for the Armenian settlements were allocated in the sparsely populated areas, far from the older Armenian communities. The state allowed the use of the native language in the work of the local authorities and cultural and educational institutions in the Armenian settlements until the end of 1930s.When allocating the land for the refugees, the state authorities aimed at getting the strong social support from Armenians. The population of the Armenian settlements supported the Soviet power, demonstrated diligence and during the Great Patriotic War gave the country great warriors, who showed unprecedented valour, bravery and courage. The purposeful forcing of the assimilation at the second half of the 20th century has led to the fact that some Armenian settlements ceased existence, others are currently on the verge of extinction and are losing their national identity. The most viable are the villages Gaikodzor and Shaumyan. Based on the example of the Armenian settlements, the author comes to the conclusion that only in compactly located areas of residence the Russian Armenians manage to a certain extend to keep their national identity, faith and traditions.