Disclosing Plans of Kalmyk Exodus to Ancestral Lands: Noyon Zamyan’s Letter to Astrakhan Governor N. A. Beketov

The article introduces a 18th-century archival document ― letter addressed by Kalmyk Noyon (Landlord) Zamyan to the Governor of Astrakhan N. A. Beketov. Materials. The study examines an archival document contained in the National Archive of Kalmykia (Collection И-36). Results. The letter reports the then sentiments of Kalmyk nobility preceding the mass exodus of 1771 to ancestral lands. Surrounded by peoples differing in religion, language and traditions, the Kalmyks naturally kept identifying themselves as Asians and never gave up the idea of return, the latter having been strengthened by active colonizing policies of Russian government. Still, not all intended to leave the newly inhabited areas for a dangerous journey towards the unknown. And one of such individuals was Noyon Zamyan. His letter to the Governor expresses anxiety and wish to prevent Kalmyks from migrating backwards with the aid of Russian authorities. And more than that, the author explains why the people want to leave Russia’s borders. This precious historical document is also an essential linguistic source on mid-to-late 18th-century Kalmyk language. Conclusions. The document is a typical sample of official epistolary writing in terms of style, structure, and other details, serving a useful source for further linguistic research. It also contains important information related to actual circumstances of the 1771 exodus, and may be of certain interest for historians.

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