Empire and Resistance: The Tsarist Conquest of 19th-Century Georgia

Nestled between Europe and Asia, Georgia has long been a battleground for empires seeking dominance over the strategically vital Caucasus. In the 19th century, as Tsarist Russia expanded southward, Georgia became the focal point of an imperial struggle that would redefine its national identity, sovereignty, and future. Empire and Resistance unveils the complex dynamics of Russian expansion into Geor-gia, exploring the political maneuvers, military conquests, and cultural transformations that shaped this turbulent era. From the Treaty of Georgievsk to the final annexation, this book delves into the shifting alliances, the resistance of Georgian nobility, and the broader geopolitical forces that determined Georgia’s fate. Drawing from historical records, firsthand accounts, and expert analysis, Leonid Us-manov presents a gripping narrative of power, diplomacy, and defiance. This is the story of a small nation caught between great empires—one that fought to preserve its identity in the face of overwhelming odds. For scholars, history enthusiasts, and anyone fascinated by the enduring struggle between empire and independence, Empire and Resistance is an essential exploration of a defining chapter in Caucasian history.