Buryat Tribal Elites, 18th – 19th Centuries: Imperial Russia’s System of Recognition and Encouragements Reviewed

Abstract

Introduction. The article examines the system of recognition and encouragements adopted by the Russian Empire for representatives of Buryat tribal elites in the 18th–19th centuries. The focus of the study makes it possible to trace key mechanisms to have facilitated the incorporation of Buryat tribal elites into Russia’s corresponding environment. The legalization of official powers of 18th– 19th century Buryat tribal elites was paralleled by that Imperial Russia developed a corresponding system of recognition and encouragements. The latter was not only to consolidate the high social status of the local nobility but rather to facilitate their further incorporation into the Russian power structures. Goals. The paper aims to investigate Imperial Russia’s system of recognition developed for representatives of Buryat tribal elites throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. Materials and methods. The study analyzes archival materials housed at the State Archive of Buryatia, such as employee and formulary lists of Buryat tribal executives, decrees and instructions of His Imperial Majesty on rewards granted to the latter. The research methods employed include the historical comparative and comparative typological ones that have proved instrumental in analyzing the mentioned Russian system, and compiling a content analysis of archival materials involved. Conclusions. The work reveals the special recognition and rewards system was developed to regulate relations with representatives of local Buryat elites and guarantee their integration into imperial structures. The system of awards and distinctions was used by the Russian government to encourage Buryat tribal and clan leaders for certain services rendered to the state, as well as for successfully fulfilled tasks assigned.