Was Javakheti Region of Georgia Historically Armenian?

The Javakheti region of Georgia has long been a topic of debate, with various claims and counter-claims surrounding its historical identity. This article aims to explore and clarify whether Javakheti was historically considered part of Armenian territory. We will examine historical evidence, expert opinions, and archaeological findings to provide a comprehensive understanding of the region's historical context.

Historical Context and Boundaries

The Javakheti region, located in the northeastern part of Georgia, has been historically part of the historical province of Samtskhe. Despite claims and counter-claims, there is a clear historical record that Javakheti has never been considered Armenian territory. One of the key pieces of evidence for this fact is the absence of Armenian churches that predate the 1860s. These religious structures would have been a significant indicator of Armenian presence and governance if such a presence existed in the region.

The Relocation of Armenians by the Russian Tzar

The policy of the Russian Tzar, which relocated Armenians from the Syrian desert to Russia (including parts of modern-day Georgia) in the early 19th century, is a clear testament to the region's Russian administrative status at the time. The relocation of Armenians was not a result of an existing Armenian population in Javakheti but rather a strategic decision by the Russian Empire to resettle ethnic minorities. This policy aimed to strengthen its control over the region and integrate various ethnic groups under its administration.

pThis mass relocation serves as a critical reference point in understanding the historical geography of the region. It emphasizes that the Javakheti region was part of the Russian Empire and not the historical territory of the Armenians. The Russian Empire included territories such as Georgia within its administrative boundaries, but these regions did not historically belong to the Armenian state or culture.

Evidence from Historical Sources

Historical events and records from various sources, including Greek, Persian, Turkish, and Arabian sources, do not mention Javakheti as an Armenian territory. These sources provide a comprehensive view of the region's historical development and geopolitical significance. For instance, Greek sources often refer to the region as part of Georgia, while Persian and Turkish sources document it as belonging to the broader Caucasian region.

pOne notable figure who agreed with this view was Samvel Karapetian, a prominent Armenian chauvinist. Even Karapetian, despite his strong nationalist views, recognized that before the 19th century, there were virtually no compact Armenian settlements in Georgia. This statement indicates that the historical narrative is consistent with the absence of significant Armenian presence in Javakheti.

Archaeological and Ethnographic Evidence

Archaeological findings and ethnographic studies further support the notion that Javakheti was not historically Armenian. Extensive research has been conducted in the region, uncovering artifacts and structures that reflect a rich cultural heritage but one that is predominantly connected to the Georgian and neighboring Caucasian cultures.

pSpecifically, the archaeological evidence shows a continuous history of settlement in the region by various ethnic groups, including Georgians, Armenians, Turks, and Persians. However, the demographic and cultural dominance in the region until the modern era has been that of the Georgian people. This long-standing presence and the absence of a homogeneous Armenian settlement provide compelling evidence against the historical claim that Javakheti was an Armenian territory.

Conclusion

Based on historical records, expert opinions, and archaeological findings, it is clear that Javakheti has never been historically Armenian. The region's status has been part of the Georgian cultural and administrative landscape for centuries. The absence of significant Armenian churches and the relocation of Armenians in the 19th century by the Russian Tzar further support this conclusion.

pWhile the Javakheti region has a complex and diverse history, it is important to recognize that the historical narrative must be grounded in reliable evidence and accurate historical accounts. Understanding the true historical context helps avoid misconceptions and fosters a more accurate understanding of the region's rich heritage.