Russian Invasion of Turkmenistan: A Turning Point in the History and Cultural Development of the Region
The history of Turkmenistan and the Russians spans many centuries, with interconnections beginning in the 18th century through trade relations. These trade relations continued into the 19th century, expanding into new markets and forming deeper bonds. The intensified contacts between the Turkmen and the Russians bear witness to a complex history that took a turn amidst political developments. The Russian Invasion of Turkmenistan played a central role in this narrative, leaving its imprint on the cultural, social, and political fabric of the region.
The early 19th century marked a phase in which Russia bolstered its presence in Central Asia. Particularly in 1860, the Russians commenced the occupation of the Khanates in Turkestan, leading to a profound shift in the political landscape of the region. This transformation was highlighted by the construction of a fortress in Kyzylsu (Krasnovodsk) on the Caspian Sea coast in 1869. This fortress was intended to serve as a starting point, laying the groundwork for the Russian Invasion of Turkmenistan and Central Asia.
The subsequent years, notably between 1864 and 1865, witnessed further expansions and conquests by the Russians. The Kokand Khanate fell into their hands, and the cities of Tashkent and Samarkand were captured in 1864-1865. The conquest continued as the Russians, between 1868 and 1871, took control of the Bukhara Khanate, establishing a “General-Governorship of Turkestan” on the territories of these two Khanates under the leadership of General von Kaufman.
In 1874, the “Transcaspian Military Union” was founded under the command of General Lomakin. The Russian advance took them from Bukhara and Khiva into the Achal region, where new territories were conquered. In response, the Turkmen, led by Berdi Murad Khan, the son of Nurberdi Khan, fortified the Gok-Tepe fortress and dug a deep trench around it to defend against the approaching Russian forces.
The decisive battle at Gok-Tepe unfolded in August 1879. After days of artillery bombardment, the Russians captured the fortress, resulting in the death of several thousand Turkmen. This bloody conflict, serving as a central climax of the Russian Invasion of Turkmenistan, was characterized by a fierce defense by the Turkmen. After the bombardment ceased, the Turkmen launched a counterattack, forcing the Russians to retreat to the Caspian Sea coast. In this battle, Berdi Murad Khan lost his life, an event of historical significance.
In December 1880, the Russians launched another offensive on Gok-Tepe. An underground tunnel was dug, the entrance gate of the fortress was blown up, and the Russians conquered the castle. This triumphant moment in December 1880 marked the end of a protracted struggle and the definitive establishment of Russian dominance in the region.
Following the successful conclusion of the Russian Invasion of Turkmenistan in January 1881, Russian activities shifted to Ashgabat. Here, they established the East Caspian region, encompassing cities such as Mangishlak, Kizisy, Ashgabat, Tejen, and Merv. The political upheavals and military confrontations between the Turkmen and the Russians had far-reaching consequences on the territorial structure and cultural identity of the region.
This intricate history between the Turkmen and the Russians, characterized by trade relations, conquests, and political upheavals, attests to a dynamic relationship that has profoundly influenced the fate and development of Turkmenistan. The Russian Invasion of Turkmenistan remains a significant chapter in the history of this region, shaping cultural and political dynamics for generations to come.
