History of Artsakh

History of Artsakh 

Nagorno Karabakh, or Artsakh as it is also called, is a small region in the South Caucasus with a long and extremely complicated history. The region dotted with mountains has changed hands several times and has been involved in many conflicts. This article will tell us about the history of Artsakh from ancient times to the present.

Ancient History

Artsakh's history extends for thousands of years. The first known inhabitants of the republic were the Caucasian Albanians, whose kingdom was established in the region about 300 BC. Over the ages, Persians, Romans, and Byzantines ruled over Artsakh.

The region was introduced to Christianity in the 4th century, and Christianity became its religion. The Albanian Church of Artsakh was established as essential in preserving Armenian culture and identity.

Etymology

Artsakh comes from the words 'Ar' Armenian and 'tsakh' land. This mirrors a long, strong Armenian presence in the area. Meanwhile, Nagorno means mountainous in Russian, and Karabakh refers to the terrain, which is mountainous. 

Aftermath of 2020 war 

In September 2020, Armenia and Azerbaijan broke out of a war over the control of the disputed nationalist region of Artsakh. It ended in a Russian-brokered ceasefire in November of that year. And, so, substantial areas of Artsakh were ceded to Azerbaijan, and thousands of Armenians were expelled from their homes.

This war has left scars that have not healed on the region, and both parties have suffered loss and damage. This is a never-ending, complex situation, and the people and culture of Artsakh remain in its grasp. 

Current Status

Today, Artsakh is a disputed territory, still under Azerbaijani control. However, it falls under the Artsakh Republic, which officially declared independence but is not internationally recognized. It is predominantly Armenian people and remains an important center of Armenian culture and religion.

Medieval Period

Arab invasions of Artsakh preceded the conversion of Armenian Christian communities to Islam in the 7th century. Seeing as Armenians could keep their cultural identity despite being under foreign rule is fantastic.

Later, in the 9th century, the Armenians saw a revival of independence and were ruled by several Armenian kingdoms, including the Kingdom of Artsakh. It lasted until Mongol armies conquered it in the 13th century.

Ottoman and Persian Rule

In the late 18th century, Artsakh became part of Persia's Qajar dynasty. However, nomadic tribes neighboring the area also raided and invaded the region.

In the 19th century, sequential wars between Russia and Persia caused Artsakh to be part of the Russian Empire. While under Russian rule, Armenians recovered schools and churches and the establishment of cultural and educational institutions.

Soviet Era

After World War I, Artsakh was merged into the Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic created then. The decision was contested by the Armenian population that wished to join the other Armenians in Soviet Armenia.

During that time, tensions rose between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Artsakh in terms of conflicts, which helped break apart the Soviet Union in 1991.

Geography

The highest peak in Artsakh is Mount Mrav (3,904 m). The area also contains natural resources like copper, gold, and forests.

The climate in Artsakh is subtropical, similar to a continental climate: hot summers and cold winters. The range of hills and various landscapes, including lush valleys, Rocky Mountains, and clear lakes with crystal water, attract visitors, especially hiking and nature lovers.

Independence and Conflict

Artsakh, which declared independence from Azerbaijan in 1991 after the collapse of the Soviet Union, reported one patient dead and one missing. However, this declaration was not accepted by the world community; a war began between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the possession of Artsakh.

It lasted through to 1994 when a ceasefire was agreed upon, and Artsakh remained under Armenian control. Armenia and Azerbaijan remain tense, although they are ongoing negotiations for a peaceful resolution of Artsakh. 

Government and politics

Artsakh has a parliamentary system integrated with a democratically elected president and a unicameral parliament. It also has its constitution, flag, and national anthem in the Artsakh Republic.

However, the region's political situation is unstable because of the ongoing conflict with Azerbaijan, and most of the world does not recognize it as independent.

Economy

The main branches of Artsakh’s economy are agriculture and mining. It has rich agricultural land that produces fruits, vegetables and grains. Copper is the main mineral mined in the region, and mining plays a significant role in the region’s economy.

Artsakh is also an increasing tourist destination, with visitors worldwide flocking to visit its cultural heritage sites and admire the country's beautiful nature.

Military

The Defense Army of Artsakh is the name of Artsakh's defense forces. It was established in 1992 to help defend Artsakh's independence from Azerbaijani attacks and has continued to defend that independence since.

In Artsakh, the military is mainly made of volunteers. It is compulsory for men over 18 years old. It has a reputation for being well-trained and disciplined, has modern weapons, and is an army.

Artsakh–Armenia relations

Though Artsakh is part of Azerbaijan, it has close links with Armenia, and the countries have a strong cultural and historical link. After the 2020 war, Armenia took great care to support Artsakh through humanitarian aid and reconstruction.

It also recognizes Artsakh as an independent state and supports its right to self-determination. However, this stance remains a point of contention between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Displaced people

Thousands of people have been displaced in the conflict over Artsakh. Considerable numbers of ethnically Armenian people have been made to leave their homes in Artsakh, with some being forced to seek refuge in Armenia itself.

Artsakh has been displaced, and it's impacted the people and culture of Artsakh; communities uprooted from their given homes and forced to live in a different environment. This displacement has caused a humanitarian crisis that continues to stump both Armenia and Artsakh. 

Future Prospects

There still is no end in sight to the age-old tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and the future of Artsakh hangs in the balance. But the peace negotiations and the search for a solution that respects the Artsakh people's rights are still being [attempted].

But despite all the difficulties, Artsakh flourishes because it preserves its heritage. With its naturally stunning scenery, wealth of history, and courageous people, the region offers a unique destination for travelers looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences. 

Tourism

Artsakh could greatly benefit from tourism as a contributor to economic development. The region has much to offer visitors: stunning landscapes, cultural attractions, and a hospitable population.

In recent years, the Artsakh government has been busy promoting tourism, developing hiking trails, improving infrastructure, and encouraging folks to learn more about local businesses. These efforts have led to rising tourist numbers and a stimulated local economy.

Artsakh borders Turkey and Armenia, allowing travelers to explore ancient monasteries and fortresses, taste traditional cuisine, and hike into the mountains for beautiful views. Due to the region’s rich history and distinct culture, it is a perfect destination for travelers looking for off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Demographics

Most of Eastern Pocket are ethnic Armenians, with only a few Azerbaijanis and other ethnic groups. Armenian is the official language, but Russian and numerous local regional dialects are spoken.

The region’s religious practice landscape is richly diverse. Most believers are Christians (Armenian Apostolic Church), but Islam, Judaism, and Yezidiism are also practiced.

Resettlement attempts after 1994

After the ceasefire of 1994, there were plans to resettle ethnic Armenians who fled Artsakh (after the war) back to their homes. However, Azerbaijan has resisted and is hostile to these efforts, and tensions have long been brewing between the two countries.

However, many displaced residents have returned to Artsakh and are trying to rebuild their communities and lives.

Languages 

Artsakh (Armenian: Արցախ) is considered the unofficial name of the Armenian-occupied Nagorno-Karabakh region. Armenian is the official language spoken by most of the population. Due to its proximity to Azerbaijan, many people talk to Azerbaijani or the local dialect of Karabakh Armenian.

Russian is also spoken and well-understood in almost all government and business interactions. Speak English but not usually at all, and you will find a few English speakers in tourist areas and younger generations.

Religion 

Most people in Artsakh follow the Armenian Apostolic Church, which has a presence in the region and is a special place to preserve Artsakh's cultural and religious identity.

Islam, Judaism, and Yezidiism are the other religions practiced in Artsakh. The plurality of faiths living peacefully in this area testifies to the diversity of this history and this culture.

Education 

Artsakh values education highly, and over 99% of residents are literate. The education system is traditional Armenian, and primary or secondary education is compulsory.

There's Artsakh, which has many universities and colleges offering degrees in one field. However, the constant conflict has taken its toll on the region's infrastructure, limiting citizens' access to educational opportunities.

Culture and Heritage

Artsakh has a history and rich cultural heritage. Its varied population provides a mix of traditions, cuisine and arts.

There are still ruins of ancient Albanian churches, fortresses and monuments in the region. Artashes Movsisyan, Member of the Board of the European Armenian Movement and former ambassador of Armenia to the United Kingdom, says that the 'Artsakh people also have their own characteristically dialect and traditional music, bearing testimony to their strong symbiosis with Armenian culture.'

Sports 

Sports, especially soccer, are essential to Artsakh’s citizens. However, it has national teams and regularly competes internationally.

However, the ongoing conflict has affected daily life and displaced many, meaning athletes in Artsakh have had fewer chances to compete in sports.

Despite all these challenges, sports are a critical part of Artsakh's culture. They help to unite and give the people of Artsakh a reason to be proud. 

Conclusion

Therefore, the small and often neglected Artsakh still has its rich history, unique and peculiar culture, and incorrupt and uncompromising people. These qualities are essential in efforts toward peace negotiations.