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The Circassian Miracle: the Nation Neither Tsars, nor Commissars, nor Russia Could Stop
The Circassian Miracle: the Nation Neither Tsars, nor Commissars, nor Russia Could Stop
The Circassian Miracle: the Nation Neither Tsars, nor Commissars, nor Russia Could Stop
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The Circassian Miracle: the Nation Neither Tsars, nor Commissars, nor Russia Could Stop

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This work is dedicated to Circassia, the historical homeland of the Circassians, who inspired and encouraged emerging generations to maintain the torch of freedom and to lead the way, despite all obstacles and attempts of exclusion that have been tested over the years.


Since the subjugation of their homeland, the Circassians were subjected to harsh conditions in all walks of life, which wasn’t easy to withstand and get through. This meant a dictatorial, savage, direct military and security jurisdiction, and domination for the duration of both tyrant tsarist imperial and Soviet/Communist eras. From the beginning of the 1990s on, the general situation has been quite different concerning the circumstances that the Circassian affairs have been clutched to. After decades of being forgotten, the people of the Caucasus region and the world at large have started to become enlightened with information that was prevented and blocked from the public. Even the historians, specialists, and academicians were not in the picture of the pain, destiny, and suffering that the Circassian nation was inflicted with for decades, specifically since the occupation and deportation of 1864.
LanguageEnglish
PublisherXlibris US
Release dateDec 11, 2019
ISBN9781796076851
The Circassian Miracle: the Nation Neither Tsars, nor Commissars, nor Russia Could Stop
Author

Adel Bashqawi

Adel Bashqawi is a Circassian who has been active in promoting the Circassian issue for many years. He has been committed to writing and translating articles, sharing and distributing information, giving lectures, and attending conferences among other efforts. He was born in Amman, Jordan, where his great grandfather had immigrated due to the Circassian genocide. He studied in Jordan and the United States. He worked as a civil pilot for thirty-nine years until retirement.

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    The Circassian Miracle - Adel Bashqawi

    THE

    CIRCASSIAN

    MIRACLE:

    The Nation Neither Tsars,

    Nor Commissars, Nor Russia Could Stop

    157551.png

    Adel Bashqawi

    Copyright © 2020 by Adel Bashqawi.

    Library of Congress Control Number:        2019920204

    ISBN:                    Hardcover                              978-1-7960-7687-5

                                  Softcover                               978-1-7960-7686-8

                                  eBook                                       978-1-7960-7685-1

    All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

    Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

    Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

    Rev. date: 12/11/2019

    Xlibris

    1-888-795-4274

    www.Xlibris.com

    800745

    Contents

    Dedication

    Preface

    Foreword

    Introduction

    Travelers to Circassia That Have Imposed Their Presence and Effect

    Lermontov’s Experience and Comments on Russia, Circassia, and the Caucasus

    The Reality of Circassian Ethnic Cleansing and Genocide

    The Circassian Rights and Their Link to International Law

    UNESCO’s Efforts to Protect World Heritage Sites in the Northwestern Caucasus

    The Link between the Sochi Winter Olympic Games and the Circassian Question

    Author’s Published Views on Various Aspects of the Circassian Question

    The Russo-Circassian War Documents

    Appendices

    Biography

    DEDICATION

    T HIS WORK IS dedicated to Circassia, the historical homeland of the Circassians, who inspired and encouraged emerging generations to maintain the torch of freedom and to lead the way, despite all obstacles and attempts of exclusion that have been tested over the years.

    Furthermore, I am expressing my appreciation for the relentless and persistent, blessed efforts exerted along the way by my dear wife and beloved family so as to attain my accomplishments.

    To my daughter Zaina, for her determination to pursue her commendable efforts.

    PREFACE

    S INCE THE SUBJUGATION of their homeland, the Circassians were subjected to harsh conditions in all walks of life, which wasn’t easy to withstand and get through. This meant a dictatorial, savage, direct military and security jurisdiction, and domination for the duration of both tyrant tsarist imperial and Soviet/Communist eras. From the beginning of the 1990s, the general situation has been quite different concerning the circumstances that the Circassian affairs have been clutched to. After decades of being forgotten, the people of the Caucasus region and the world at large have started to become enlightened with information that was prevented and blocked from the public. Even the historians, specialists, and academicians were not in the picture of the pain, destiny, and suffering that the Circassian nation was inflicted with for decades, specifically since the occupation and deportation of 1864.

    While the security grip remains per the present day, it has fluctuated, ranged, and seesawed between progress and recede. However, frequently, present status and circumstances trigger the desire of the Russian authorities to pass and implement certain policies that stifle and tighten the pressure on the inhabitants. Regrettably, the authorities have seriously miscalculated the effect of flagrant disregard for basic human rights. The authorities, unjustifiably, have adopted sterile steps when dealing with the indigenous people in the Circassian part of the North Caucasus. The authorities’ arms are often pursuing racist policies that are in contrast with the law, which are not judged according to methods of promoting civilized progress and dialogue to restore peoples’ legitimate rights. Illogical practices are utilized from time to time by the security services. They apparently reverse the logic and moral values beyond reasonable dimensions, as if they intend to block establishing logical, civilized, and purposeful talks between parties.

    I would like and deeply appreciate the insights of the readers when going through this data to reach their own conclusion relying on the documented, trustworthy, and highly credible information. It is required and essentially needed to address the stubbornness that is apparent and clearly exposed by the ruling authorities as it had been expressed in the past by the irresponsible policies of the successive regimes in Russia.

    While concluding all contents of this book and its editing process still going on, recent developments of various issues of the Circassian Question have popped out indicating possible inevitable and positive future prospects. Thence, I can say that the process of renaissance of Circassians in light of plausible awareness has exposed realties and facts that pertain to Circassia’s ardent and sincere activists, who are considered the saviors of their homeland.

    In the light of the increased awareness regarding the general Circassian situation both in homeland and in diaspora, it has become obvious that the Circassians are proud of their real and tireless heroes, who have been working actively, in an energetic way, within synchronized efforts, by following peaceful ways and means, despite the authorities’ witnessed confrontations by utilizing repressive methods and games. The Circassian activists have exerted unwavering, never quavered, and unrelenting efforts to tackle the situation and status they have reached. At the same time, they have determined that the sky is the limit concerning the capacities and prospects that can be achieved, while working hard and actively by pursuing nonviolent tasks.

    Writing this book has led me to refer to published events and memoirs mentioned in many sources and references, together with comments and appropriate ideas of the Circassian status until the present day. When going through detailed information, beside the introduction to mysterious events and occurrences, that made me more convinced to uncover, expose, and publish all elements that people need to know and be aware of. They will decide on the next course what is needed to be taken to demand the restoration of the neglected and overlooked justified rights. The amount of information and legitimacy that is represented has attracted and encouraged me to a greater extent to unveil this work.

    Since I started writing this book, I was puzzled about its title, even though the title is centered on and meant to be around Circassia and what it means at the present time. Also, the chapters’ contents of the book, as per the index, should reflect a meaning to the title.

    Nevertheless, when I completed writing the book, which touches on prominent issues and subjects of the Circassian Question, my choices were shortened to several options, such as

    – Circassian Destiny

    – Circassian Disaster

    – Circassian Catastrophe

    By conferring with a dear friend, he advised me to consult Paul Goble, who is one of the most famous and sincere Circassian friends, so I did to find out what is his opinion.

    I am not surprised that Mr. Goble has thankfully accepted to write the foreword of this book. In addition, he suggested that the title of the book should be The Circassian Miracle: the Nation neither Tsars nor Commissars nor Russia Could Stop. This is what will count in history’s records.

    It goes without saying that Mr. Goble has a vast and extensive experience and an outstanding record of achievements. In addition, he is editor and publisher of four volumes, where most of them pertain to the former Soviet and Russian issues, titled, Window on Eurasia. He is one of the most famous writers, political analysts, and experts on the former Soviet Union republics, particularly Russia.

    FOREWORD

    THE NEVER-ENDING MIRACLE OF THE CIRCASSIANS

    by Paul Goble

    J UST AS THE single blade of grass, no matter how small, inevitably breaks through a concrete wall, no matter how thick, so too the Circassian nation since the beginning of its contact with the Russian State three centuries ago has just as inevitably achieved again and again what few other nations could have and what many assumed wasn’t possible. For more than a century, the Circassians fought the much larger and better armed Russian army, holding out for longer than anyone expected.

    In 1864, after being expelled from their homeland by the tsarist powers, an act of genocide that the Russian State assumed would kill them off for all time. The Circassians who remained kept hope alive in a small but vibrant community, and those who were expelled, despite the almost impossible conditions of exile, more than survived. They flourished, winning the confidence of those who were supposed to absorb them.

    In 1917, after the Soviets took power, faced Circassian resistance, and also sought to inflict a final defeat on them by dividing those in the homeland into smaller ethnic groups, splitting them apart into different ethnic territories and, the final indignity, combining them in binational republics, intended to break their nationality altogether; and by ignoring or mistreating the Circassians abroad, this proud nation nonetheless maintained itself by memory and the careful tending of the following generations, ensuring that once again, the Circassians, like the living blade of grass, would break through the dead concrete of those in power.

    And when the Soviet system collapsed in 1991, many Circassians thought that perhaps their day had come, that their carefully tended people could break through. But the new Russian powers that be proved to be just as hostile to the Circassian nation at home and abroad as their tsarist and Soviet predecessors. And many people, including not a few Circassians, concluded that what that nation had been able to do in the past, it would not be able to repeat and that, finally, the concrete would be stronger than the grass.

    They were wrong—and for exactly the same reasons that those who wrote off the Circassians in the past were because of the apparently overwhelming power of those they faced. With the rise of the Internet, the Circassians of the homeland and the Circassians of the diaspora were joined together. With Vladimir Putin overreaching and securing the scheduling of a winter Olympiad in Sochi, on precisely the killing fields through which the Circassians passed in 1864, the Circassians in the homeland and the Circassians of the diaspora joined hands and attracted the attention of the world to what the Russians had done and were still doing, not only rekindling the national spirit and unity the Circassians had shown so often in the past but also winning the hearts and minds of people around the world. And with Moscow getting involved in yet another killing field, this time in Syria, but unwilling to allow the Circassians there to come home, the Circassians won another victory: they were able to hold up to the world the real picture of Russian cynicism and brutality and the way Moscow was prepared to visit it upon a nation whose only crime was and is the desire to be free.

    Many have cheered the Circassians for what they have achieved, but all too many have assumed that the Circassians, with so many miracles to their credit in the past, may finally have run out of luck. The concrete of the Russian State, the concrete of an international system increasingly hostile to any border changes, and the concrete of globalization with its capacity to undermine preexisting identities and groups all seem too thick for the blade of living grass that is the Circassian nation to break through. How can a people living in many countries, often far from its homeland, hope to come together and win out, restoring a single Circassia at such a time? But like those who wrote off the Circassian Cause three centuries ago, two centuries ago, a century ago, and a decade back, they too are wrong.

    For most peoples, the odds of winning out would be just too daunting, but not for the Circassians. Not only have they achieved the impossible and not just the improbable before, making it all the more likely that they can do so again, but also they are animated by a spirit and commitment that has led to a new intellectual flowering both in the homeland and around the world. The book you hold in your hand by Adel Bashqawi is part of that renaissance, and it is also a detailed description of how the Circassian miracle is going to continue and why in the future—and not the distant future but within the coming decade—that blade of grass will break through and break up all the concrete piled on it.

    When that happens, neither Circassians nor other readers of this remarkable book will be surprised.

    INTRODUCTION

    I N THE EARLY 1970s, two Circassian women in their midforties traveled with their families from Amman, Jordan, to the town of Reyhanli, Turkey, to spend the summer holiday. It is a small and affluent town that is inhabited by an insignificant proportion of Circassians and located near the border with Syria.

    They met with Circassian families and exchanged views about the surrounding circumstances. It is customary in these cases to exchange views and information. Some of them asked about the names of the families they knew, especially with regard to their own family, and their husbands’ families. They were informed that some elders might know these families and where they lived in Turkey. Surprisingly, when one of the respected dignitary elders heard of their family name, he said that he knew this particular family. He contacted one of the Circassian taxi owners and asked him if he knew that particular family. The taxi owner confirmed this, identified the town they lived in, and even knew the location of their home.

    The two women went with two of their children, along with the dignitary elder from Reyhanli, to the town of Uzunyayla with the mentioned taxi owner. The comfortable taxi drove through the road connecting tens of villages and towns. They had to travel a long distance of approximately 840 kilometers. Not all the roads were paved properly at that time, so they took two days to cross areas where Circassian villages and farms are common. They had to spend a night with a Circassian family in a village located almost halfway. The next evening, they arrived at their destination.

    The car arrived and parked in the driveway, in front of the intended house, without any prior appointment or notification of the strange visitors’ arrival, where the people of the house were on a date with the unknown to receive relatives they had never known or met. The older man presented the visitors to their surprised hosts and explained the fact that the two women were from the same family. The unplanned rendezvous was neither thought of nor accounted for but has come true. Through their conversation, they reached the bitter truth. The branches of the family were discussed and reviewed, but unfortunately, they had ended up in different geographical locations. They lived, at the very least, in Turkey, Syria, and Jordan as a result of the tragedy that had befallen the nation.

    Apparently, after the sudden emotional shock, the host family realized the importance of this encounter. They invited other relatives and the town’s dignitaries to come for the purpose of welcoming and greeting the visiting relatives, whose grandparents had journeyed to the unknown through the natural and administrative borders that, with sorrow, later turned into geographical and political boundaries. One of the relatives who knew the history of the family identified the grandfather who went south. The folks were told that the property and real estate of their grandfather in this quiet town was available and can be put for their disposal and to reclaim their ancestral land if they wanted to return to live there.

    The host narrated to them that his sons and relatives were also scattered in several cities and locations in Turkey, such as Ankara and Istanbul. The guests did the same and told their host about the rest of the family in other places of diaspora. After a short rest, they returned the next day to where they had come from, where another chapter of a strenuous journey of diaspora unfolded. It makes us stand and contemplate moments and feel humane before a portrait of suffering humanity. Reality shows that those who have lost their homeland in a part of this world have endured hatred, sadness, and selfishness, committed by those who stripped their humanity. Our power lies in our love of our homelands.¹ Our homeland does not change, even if we move and we stay away. Where we love is home—home that our feet may leave, but not our heart.²

    These inspirational realities mentioned above did not come from fiction or legendary novels. Their heroes are the people and the descendants who were exposed to tragedies and exodus. After a bitter displacement journey, suddenly and unexpectedly, the descendants had met and communicated with their relatives that have not seen them or had even known about their whereabouts before. They were warmly welcomed by descendants of their grandparents and ancestors, who were initially displaced from the original place of their permanent residency by the tsarist Russian invading forces and then deported by ships from their precious homeland, Circassia, to endless exile and expatriation, which have triggered the fact of dispersion in many parts of the Ottoman Empire after 1864. After the fall of the Ottoman Empire, the members of this particular family have eventually ended up in at least three different independent countries of the world of today. The irony of fate is that they may coincidently meet by chance somewhere every now and then.

    Through the pages of this book, I pay special and endless tributes to my late mother and late aunt who encountered this experience and lived along with a distinguished phase of one of the Circassian families in diaspora. The feelings of passion and family ties and gatherings were stirred, and it was probably felt that, at that moment, the bonds of love and harmony had been revived and there was an obligation to maintain close family ties between the members of the family even after a long interruption. This would draw the dots to draw the image of national unity and integrity.

    157767.png

    Nothing in this life is more difficult or painful than a state of mandatory homelessness or displacement. In consequence, this leads most of the time to the dispersion and distribution of the same family members in different countries around the world. How can a phenomenon that applies to an entire people that have faced difficulties, dilemmas, and complications, or an entire nation after being exposed to the horrors of destruction, murder, torture, and displacement be this acceptable? This coincides with an author’s note, It took me a long time to decide on publication of this book, which although it does not unveil all of the facts about the history and civilization of the Caucasus and the Cherkess, nevertheless contains quite comprehensive information and many interesting facts about a Nation that was to receive one of the most severe and inhuman treatments at the hands of sectarians who claim to be ‘the defenders of smaller nations and the leaders of civilisation.’³

    All comparable and difficult situations have been dealt with as patiently as possible, starting with the absorption of the violent trauma that would shake up the entire entity of any nation in such circumstances. They eventually believed that they had to recapitulate and start reestablishing self-contained confidence to begin to reexamine and deal with all barriers, obstacles, and troubles installed and placed in all walks of life. Even though the colonial invaders did not know that a nation of such deep roots with civilized depth and dimensions would not be easy to ignore, eliminate, or neutralize for the purpose of making its people without a homeland that attracts its attention.

    157757.png

    Describing and narrating the different issues of the Circassian Question is no fiction. It is not characterizing the subject as if it’s out of the myths or tales from One Thousand and One Nights. Quite the contrary, the subject is related to the flesh and blood of an entire nation. Events and matters are linked and depend on truth, facts, and figures that emerged from painful facts of existence. The entire topic was overwhelmed by the denial of inherent natural rights of humanity.

    The Cherkess were distinguished from the other races of the Caucasus by their large and robust figures, their greater activity and daring. Very little was known to the world about the Cherkess until the year 1836, when they attracted the world’s attention with their heroic fighting and warfare against the Russians for their existence and freedom, which had been going on for about one century.

    The perception indicated that tyrant and totalitarian forces, states, and/or leaders had imposed their will on other peoples with whom they have no ethnical links. Frustration and harsh exposure have taught the Circassians unpleasant experiences, which have been disturbed to them for decades. Imperialists and submerged colonists have unfairly imposed their will on the unfortunate peoples who have fallen under the influence of the yoke of treachery, occupation, and authoritarian guardianship. Except that they were neighbors to those who aspired to subjugate neighboring countries citing virtue of their geographical location in addition to other egocentric motives. The absence of common sense was a ruling factor in every sense of the word. There was incompatibility between the aggressors and the oppressed peoples, while they were at variance with each other in capabilities and potentials.

    Many journalists, diplomats, dignitaries, and prominent people have stated their opinions and thoughts on the Russian invasion. They mentioned in detail what the other nations would have benefited in case Russia was repelled from occupying Circassia and other areas of the Caucasus. They even criticized the crimes committed, which led to total occupation.

    Prominent visitors came to Circassia by approaching the Circassian coast by sea vessels, where they utilized ships and cruised across the waters of the Black Sea. This took them to Circassia geographically, culturally, and existentially. They were enabled to take a personal and more extensive look at a unique country. Apparently, they endured the hardships of sea travel for the sake of knowing more about a nation that was on the brink of extinction and to know more about the events in the region. Journeys foretold approaching a Circassian catastrophe.

    Travelers’ journeys to the region in general and Circassia in particular have imposed positive and negative facts on the ground. They reached a conclusion that cultural, tribal, and family concepts of the Circassian society were almost unmatched at the time. Efforts made were the result of having reached different levels of understanding of a threatened nation in a region stocked of difficult circumstances. The most important of which was the imposed Russo-Circassian War, which was caused by greedy colonial ambitions.

    The tsarist Russian Empire was seeking to cripple the indigenous nation and to divide the people, whatever the cost and no matter how long it would take. The foreign visitors have mentioned different places of Circassia that observed similarity and even matching customs and traditions. This includes, but not limited to, hospitality and respect for the guest. The travelers had verified that the host communities had demonstrated good reception along with good intentions.

    They showed generosity and indicated the interest of various members of the communities to come to welcome and greet the guests. They also invited the guests to visit them in different regions. The Circassians were interested to know the position of different countries regarding the tsarist war and wanted to inform them about their position toward what is happening against their homeland.

    Providing food, considering its quality, the way it was presented, its grade and availability in good condition, Circassia was a land of plenty, with availability of fertile agricultural land and abundant agricultural products. Not to mention the benefits of the meat and animal skins, besides handicraft products and traditional industry. In short, they did not need help from anyone. Warnings of war, raids and aggressive attacks of tsarist Russia, and the repeated desperate Russian attempts in many occasions to subjugate Circassia. The intention was to destroy all what they could, kill, or capture its citizens in any way possible.

    157748.png

    According to the book Travels in Circassia, Krim-Tartary &C.: Including a Steam Voyage down the Danube, from Vienna to Constantinople, and round the Black Sea (1836), the author, Edmund Spencer, verified many facts that established reality regarding the results of Russian colonial policies that had been pursued against the Circassians. It occurs in light of the lies and in the face of rumors that the tsarist Russian Empire and its agents had maligned, spread, and distributed.

    The book mentions that Anapa and the surrounding country, formerly belonged to a small warlike tribe of Circassians, called Skhegake,⁵ and then added, to remind of the relations between Circassian and other political entities around the Mediterranean and beyond, The fortress was built upon the ruins of one originally constructed by the Genoese, and from this epoch the inhabitants of the Caucasus may date the commencement of the long wars which have desolated their country down to the present day.

    Spencer gave a description of the nature of the matters related to the Circassians and the offenses that took place against them. It stated, Not only to obtain possession of the heights which command the valley and the entrance to the port, but to fortify them. This, however, cannot be done except at a great expense and fearful sacrifice of life; and even should the Russians succeed in the enterprise, I very much doubt their power either of being able to hold forcible possession, or allowed the necessary time to fortify them, owing to the murderous and harassing warfare continually carried on by the natives.

    No doubt that the Tsarist Russians were implementing a plan. Spencer was interested to seek information regarding future war plans. During; the time I remained on shore, I had for my companions several young officers of the guards, who communicated to me a variety of interesting particulars respecting the Circassians and their mode of warfare, together with the plans proposed to be carried into execution for the purpose of reducing them to subjection.

    Spencer described in particular a specific elaboration on the sophistication of the Circassian landscape and the professional cultivation that indicates a link to civilization that the invading forces wanted on many occasions to deny. Between Pchad and the bay of Djook (or Kodos), I observed more decisive evidences of civilization than any I had previously witnessed. Every spot appeared diligently cultivated; the sides of the hills were laid out in pretty fields, enclosed with paling, in which numerous flocks and herds were feeding, together with several horses, evidently of the finest breed. The cottages, also, appeared better built, with neat verandahs in front; and the verdant pastures and meadows, intermingled with the golden corn, and the dark shades of the groves and clumps of forest trees, formed a picture which excited the most lively admiration of our whole party.

    157739.png

    You will enjoy being introduced to an interesting book from the nineteenth century, published by James Stanislaus Bell, titled Journal of a Residence in Circassia during the Years 1837, 1838, and 1839. The author described his views and comments when visiting Circassia, discussing realities about the type of life that distinguished the Circassians’ society. Bell elaborated on various parts of their communities in areas he had personally toured and visited.

    It’s good to mention that many ancient nations have deemed to offer abundance of data on Circassians and their activities and effectiveness in the region and beyond. That considerable materials for a history of the Caucasian tribes in general do exist in the literatures of Greece and Rome, of the Turks and Arabs, I firmly believe; but I doubt whether these sources have yet been exhaustively investigated, or their value as evidence critically examined.¹⁰

    Bringing up the language subject is a meaningful hint, citing the ongoing language issue in the Circassian world about whether to stay Cyrillic or use Latin characters. At this stage a plain man can do no more than adhere in his own writings to one system, and tell the public what that system is: and this accordingly is what I have done in my attempts to represent in English characters the articulate sounds of the Circassian language.¹¹

    No need to wonder about the Russian’s desperate ambitions, which lasted for more than one hundred years, as to what kind of benefits and profits the results would be. There were expected bounties and awards awaiting when concluding domination over all areas. In addition to the dreams and intentions of the acquisition of the entire country, there were a multitude of concerns and considerations. Natural resources include land, water, fertile soils, cultivation, animals, plants, forests, and minerals.

    Circassians tried and suffered hard for years to find a sincere friend, but unfortunately, they did not find any. While some so-called friends were not able to provide any help but be false witnesses. They intended to eliminate a nation that its only fault was to demand eradicating the intruders’ guardianship, since the experience showed that there is no magnet for friendship but a mutual attachment, respect, sincerity, and dedication. Bitter experiences have taught Circassians, the hard way, that promises and sweet talk do not mean anything in reality.

    They made preparation, therefore, to continue alone the war with Russia. For this purpose, Sefir Bey, the most distinguished of their Princes, Hadji-oku Mehmet, their chief judge, and other persons of rank and influence, set out on a tour through the provinces. In each province they were met by a congress of delegates, especially chosen, who took oath for their respective communities, that they would remain faithful to each other, and would reject whatever terms of submission Russia might propose, unless under their general concurrence and sanction. At the same time, they constituted the Prince and the Judge their ambassadors for endeavouring to procure foreign aid; and the former their plenipotentiary for remains abroad in protection of that object.¹²

    The territorial sovereignty of the Circassian territories and the nonsubmission to any party made the Circassian nation not to succumb to propaganda, provocation, and threat. They did not accept subjugation to any colonial power because they lived in their homeland freely and had self-sufficiency. They did not need help from anyone, but they demanded to keep intruders beyond the boundaries of their homeland. They did their utmost to defend their existence by any means available within their disposal.

    Touching on the personal features of the Circassian character, it can be elaborated on contained qualities of individuals, which are reflected on what the people endure for themselves. It is but too common for these free-born Circassians to say and do what comes uppermost when their passions are touched, and among themselves these outbreaks soon heal and are forgotten. I would fain convince them that we are not accustomed to such unreasonable conduct, or at all events know how to resent it.¹³

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    Based on the principle of self-preservation, Circassians responded with self-defense, and they resisted and placed the invaders under pressure. The aggressors had utilized their capabilities to construct advanced military installations, centers, installations, and garrisons, which can be protected, and to launch aggressive attacks against the Circassian villages and whereabouts. Slowly but deliberately, the invaders took advantage of their superb capabilities to implement the tsarist Russian strategies.

    Reaching the final stages of war, criminal operations stretched to annihilation, genocide, and the implementation of a scorched earth policy. Circassians who remained alive were deported from their homeland, either to places beyond the Kuban River or to the Ottoman Empire. The conclusion has proven that the travelers were offering some promises, or rather, reporting dubious news that proved over time that they were untrue, incorrect, or even had no credibility.

    They spread news of the intention of the European countries to send aid to Circassia for the purpose of assisting to defend themselves and to break the unjustifiable blockade and to end the sanctions. We cannot fail to mention the envoys, including the religious mullahs. In turn, they offered the promises of the Ottoman Sultan to help the Circassians stand up to the conspiracy of the tsarist Russian Empire to occupy Circassia, to be annexed to their usurper entity.

    Later, this move evolved to aid the Russian Empire to vacate Circassia from its native inhabitants and owners. The Ottoman Empire helped to transport Circassians to Ottoman ports in Turkey and the Balkans. They even offered temptations to some deportees, according to false promises and illusions that cannot be achieved on the ground. It did not take long or much time to discover, the hard way, that all pledges were fake promises.

    157719.png

    The sequence of the Russian-Circassian War (1763–1864) had eventually led to disastrous consequences that destroyed an ancient nation with an honorable history. Russian archives have revealed information that is an important evidence to conviction of criminals and tyrants. Strong proof of the mass murder and war of genocide they waged in Circassia. The Russian documents that were written by penmanship technique indicated intransigence, which showed the extent of arrogance and indifference and evil acquisition of oppressed nations.

    Reality has proven that executed Russian plans were invasion, destruction, occupation, genocide, and deportation. Correspondence and written military standard orders were issued and archived. The war was inspired by the instructions of the Tsar or Emperor. Orders used to come in hierarchical order. Operations instructions have shown military orders from the minister of war, the general staff, the commander, and the generals of what was called the Caucasus army, in addition to the commanders of the Russian military, Cossack, and mercenary units.

    The Circassians have shown their honest purpose of maneuvering within a sensible and wise mentality. Their ultimate goal was to understand and comprehend the details of atrocities accumulated over the years, which led to their tragedies. Not for the sake of retaliating against anyone or any party, but to implement the legal proceedings in a peaceful and civilized way and eventually bury the hatchet once and for all. The casualties and victims were only an incentive for the aggressor forces to pursue their crimes.

    The documents state all kinds of atrocities committed against the entire nation. The immoral and criminal legacy of the tsarist Russian troops had a wide range of evil varieties. Correspondence between Russia’s high command headquarters, staff, commanders, and generals has shown harmony and coordination among all those involved with the waged war against Circassia. It involved messages, letters, and orders relaying standard operating procedures, tactics, policies, and strategies to implement the final objectives of occupation, annexation, and deportation by utilizing extermination methods.

    At any possible occasion, Russians claim (and more importantly, rant) that the Circassians or the indigenous people were leaving their home voluntarily. As if no one obliged them to leave their homes and they just decided to leave their homeland to the unknown. Going onboard a tourist trip, a love boat, to spend unlimited vacation with family members, neighbors, and friends in permanent resorts around the world. The Russian authorities were chartering the commercial ships for the purpose of deportation to the Ottoman Empire.

    Readers will notice that pushing Circassians out of their homeland did not stop after 1864 but remained unchanged for decades after that date. An example is shown where the Russian Embassy in Istanbul has always kept an open-door policy with the Ottoman government, specifically the foreign ministry. In this document, it indicates how the Russian envoy asked to allow the deportation of hundreds of families from the Kuban and Terek regions in the Caucasus to the Ottoman Empire.

    The surprising thing is the way of a demand that 226 families be deported to Syria, suggesting that the Russians have even determined in their request what area they chose those Circassians to be deported to.

    Referring to the letter dated April 22, 1905, I have the honor to inform you that through the information that we received the following and is concluded:

    In correspondence dated October 4 and 7, 1903, talk was concluded about the permission of the Turkish government to allow the resettlement of 226 families and not 260 families from the Muslims of Terek region to immigrate to Turkey to be resettled in the province of Syria, in addition to 372 families from the Kuban Region.

    Government Central Archives—Republic of Kabardino—Balkaria¹⁴

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    Shocking to know that a military commander would accept to be delegated by his country’s autocratic authorities to be a military governor. Appointment meant to employ the toughest diabolical instructions and initiatives in a region occupied against the will of its indigenous people. The intention was to gain acquisition and colonization. Yarmalov intended to rant and brag, wishing to create tales and stories about his fearful name and reputation.

    Officers desired to be a source of horror, fear, and terror seeking to maintain order and to implement their occupation’s administrative law and order. The empire had decided to control the region and to transfer it to be part of it, which did not weigh or respect human values. Not surprisingly, the Russians mastered the game of espionage and gathering data of interest to follow intended military operations. They were studying the demographic situation to get rid of the human element, in light of the developments of the fierce war, which was fought by the tsarist Russian forces and their allies. Along with the Russians, the Cossack communities were brought to participate in the war to eliminate the population in total or to deport them from their country. They have been given numerous tasks related to their skills of fulfilling the dirty work allocated to their combat units. Their terrorist raids committed crimes and genocide.

    The tsarist Russians employed and utilized the Cossacks who worked as herds of mercenaries to execute the dirty work. They were brought in large groups that participated in implementing crimes of destruction, occupation, genocide, and deportation. Cossacks were granted the properties of the victims. They inhibited with their family’s special military settlements. They eventually stayed in areas that have been evacuated by Circassians.

    Human history shows how events and achievements are continuously registered. In most cases, they are accompanied by terrible memories. But those who stand and defend a humanitarian attitude rely on self-preservation for the sake of restoring legitimate rights. They do so only to defend national noble principles. A man who stands for nothing will fall for anything.¹⁵

    Even though Winston Churchill said, History is written by the victors,¹⁶ (meaning that winners will impose their point of view in any conflict) but civility, civilization, and justice struggle together to show the truth and demonstrate it to all. Let us be more realistic. Those who continue to exist or live after a catastrophe will be able to narrate events that eventually become history. History is written by the survivors. And I am surely that.¹⁷

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    Between expectations and real events, there are important matters that must be addressed to take into account. Commenting on what the Circassians have endured in the past, Fikri Işık, Turkish minister of Industry and Technology, said, Circassians suffered great pains but never gave up their honor.¹⁸ Through addressing various issues and hardships, the crucial matters will be significantly affected. Regrettably, certain parties and groups, in addition to their fans, have been working to negatively influence the course of the Circassian Cause. They tend to dictate some ideas that have been proven to be inaccurate. They favor to create doubts, obstacles, and/or put a spoke in (one’s) wheel.

    Some of the parties that make up the problems tend to create imaginary enemies and release statements and accusations against people and parties who demand restoring national rights of any sort. This is imposed by addressing theories, principles, and concepts that appear strange ideas unrelated to Circassians. They act as being against moderate or national ideas, their tendency to steer toward dependency on the party that bets on maintaining fait accompli.

    Those who insist to poke certain parties or individuals in the Circassian Question, who have become known and preconceived positions, but miserable and desperate, aimed at driving Circassians from their proper objective and its lofty goals. Attacking people, organizations, or countries that Circassians have no unsolved issues with them is not smart. Doing this will not strengthen the Circassian national cause and will not affect the outcome whether positively or negatively.

    This is reminiscent of those who want to draw attention from a central and fundamental issue, to raise other inessential issues to distract importance. Acting in such a way would draw attention from main issues to secondary affairs that are irrelevant to the original case. This is revealed in many examples seen before us. It is binding to mention such hints and to elaborate on some of the problems imposed on Circassians whether in the homeland or in diaspora.

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    The nature of the northwestern Caucasus makes it easy to enjoy the different circumstances of the topography of the land and therefore the accompanying weather. Ranging from sub-tropical zones along the coast to 10,000-foot mountain peaks in the interior, it houses thousands of species of plants, birds and mammals, some of which are globally threatened. It is also a popular summer vacation spot for Russians. This wilderness area allows everyone, regardless of wealth or social status, to access and enjoy nature.¹⁹

    The World Heritage Committee of UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) and through the thirty-third session, which was held in Seville, Spain, from June 22–30, 2009, had studied 178 cases of World Heritage sites,²⁰ as it has also considered requests for the inclusion of new sites on the UNESCO World Heritage list as the Committee’s meeting addressed the need to preserve the World Heritage sites in the Western Caucasus district, especially the Sochi region, which will host on its soil, the 2014 Winter Olympics Games, as well as the surrounding areas.

    To circumvent and overcome any procedural obstacles in destroying the protected forests in the area where the Olympic games structures and buildings were planned to be erected, Leonid Tyagachev, the president of the Russian Olympic Committee from 2001 to 2010, stated, If the [environmental activists], shaking the Constitution in front of our faces, will start shrieking that we can’t cut down fir-trees and pine trees, it’ll be easier for us to change the Constitution.²¹ This shows disregard and contempt of laws and the possibility to be easily changed when needed.

    The National Geographic magazine confirmed in an article, The Circassians made their last stand in the small canyon that is now called Krasnaya Polyana, or red glade, a name some erroneously attribute to the bloodshed of the battle. After their surrender in 1864 the Circassians were expelled, and refugees died by the thousands on their way to Sochi. Survivors were shipped to various corners of the Ottoman Empire. Some of them died aboard the Turkish vessels, cast overboard into the Black Sea.²²

    Approximately one month before the opening ceremony of the Sochi Olympic Games, Arda Inal-Ipa published a study on International Alert Blog titled The Sochi Olympics and the Circassian Question.²³

    While the study confirms in its entirety that the Russian state has not yet shown any positive sign or willingness to agree with the Circassians on a settlement for the Circassian Question, it says that Circassians are in order to understand why the International Olympic Committee (IOC)’s decision to hold the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi has been controversial in relation to the Circassian Question, it is necessary to understand some of the historical aspects and episodes from the Caucasian War.²⁴

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    The Circassians are entitled to claim their rights from Russia in accordance with the historical sequence that indicates the fact of forced deportation from their original homeland. They took refuge in alternative homelands. Far from the situation that these scattered communities have reached, it shows that the general International Law contains the legal cornerstones which illustrate that Circassians have the right to claim their historical rights that have not and will not be statute of limitations, and these rights as stated above are limited to the right to return and get compensation altogether. Compensation is not considered an alternative for the right for return, but it is another prerogative in addition to the right of return.

    Resolution adopted by the General Assembly, 47/135: The Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious, and Linguistic Minorities, dated December 18, 1992, starts with the emphasis on the rights that should be enjoyed by every human being in accordance with the United Nations Charter: Reaffirming that one of the main purposes of the United Nations, as proclaimed in the Charter of the United Nations, is to achieve international cooperation in promoting and encouraging respect for human rights and for fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as to race, sex, language or religion.²⁵

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    Our concern in this book is to follow a flow of news and events, from the time that witnessed the emergence and growth of imperialist dreams for the purpose of achieving acquisition and colonial goals until today. It was not easy upon the Circassians to bear all the pressure, murder, and destruction, but they eventually had to accept the fact, which is the victor the fact. All they had to do was to accept the status quo and look to the future with confidence. Perhaps that day would come when justice and rights would be restored.

    TRAVELERS TO CIRCASSIA THAT HAVE IMPOSED THEIR PRESENCE AND EFFECT

    Edmond Spencer’s Travels in Circassia

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    Circassian, from Edmund Spencer’s Travels in Circassia

    D URING THE CONTINUOUS confrontation, aggravated harassment and crimes were applied with sadistic bragging. It went together with applying imperial policies that were used against the Circassians who were defending themselves and their homeland against foreign invasion.

    Fabricated information, among many various areas, were the malicious tactics used by Russian propaganda to blur the facts. Therefore, they ill-described the qualities of the members of the Circassian nation at the individual and collective levels, unlike all the facts that prove that the reason is antipathy and blind hatred.

    According to the book Travels in Circassia, Krim-Tartary, &C.: Including a Steam Voyage down the Danube, from Vienna to Constantinople, and round the Black Sea, in 1836, the author, Edmund Spencer, had verified many facts that established truths about the results of Russian colonial policies that had been pursued against the Circassians. This was in light of the lies and in the face of rumors that the tsarist Russian Empire and its agents had maligned, spread, and distributed.

    The author stated a description of Circassians as he had accepted the merit and load of duty, with honesty and integrity, to convey the message of truth that he found lying on his shoulders. He felt it himself and wanted to ascertain the readers and all those who received wrong and false information.

    After convictions, which he saw as a result of what was introduced to him on the ground, Mr. Spencer said, In short, we found a whole people in arms fighting for their independence with indomitable bravery, and the Russian garrisons daily diminishing by pestilence and the sword. He added, Thus, between incessant warfare and pestilence, so great is the destruction of human life, that we cannot think any other Christian power would waste the blood of its subjects with such wanton prodigality; for I assure you, the unfavourable picture which truth has obliged me to draw of the Russian settlements in Circassia, so far from being overcharged, has been but too faintly sketched; and what, perhaps, is still more extraordinary, the Russians are not one step nearer the accomplishment of their object—the conquest of Circassia, than they were at the first commencement of hostilities on the banks of the Kouban fifty years ago. Besides, we must consider it the very height of bad policy in a government thus to waste the resources of the country in an undertaking so little calculated to be profitable, or ultimately successful, and which only serves as a drain for its soldiers, who might be much better employed; for if ever a country could be termed the grave of a people, Circassia is that to Russia.

    Then he made certain of the stark truth, which was apparently and closely observed, that the Circassians were not only in the process of living freely and independently in their homeland but also showing that they would defend their homeland against the foreign invasion of tsarist Russia. Previously to setting forth on our coasting expedition round the Black Sea, I heard it very generally said in South Russia, that the conquest of Circassia was consummated, that the Russian flag waved triumphantly over every hill and vale, and that it was only necessary for the governor-general to present himself, to ensure the submission of the few hostile chiefs who still obstinately refused to give in their allegiance. Hence, we expected on our voyage to have witnessed the general pacification; to have beheld humanity converting a nation from barbarism to Christianity. How different was the reality from the anticipation! No chief waited upon us to tender his allegiance, and those who pretended to be the allies of Russia were everywhere absent. In short, we found a whole people in arms fighting for their independence with indomitable bravery, and the Russian garrisons daily diminishing by pestilence and the sword.²⁶

    The book showed (on page 251) a portrait with an explanation: Interview between Count Worrenzow and a Circassian Chief. Then it said, DEPARTURE FOR ANAPA, the first Russian settlement in Circassia.²⁷

    After departing Kerch, on the Azpv Straight, which connects the Black Sea and the Azov Sea, At the dawn of the following day, I was aroused from my cot by the sailors crying ‘Tcherkesse! Tcherkesse!’ Circassia! Circassia! and jumping upon deck, I caught for the first time a view of the lesser chain of the Caucasus, piled up in all their varied forms to heaven.²⁸

    Spencer added, The country was inundated with copies of a proclamation from the king of England, calling upon the Circassians to defend their country; and that in the event of their requiring assistance, he would forthwith dispatch a powerful fleet to their aid.²⁹

    Promises that did not have any impact because of a lack of respect and compliance with those promises. But the last, and to me the most extraordinary piece of intelligence was, that the country was inundated with copies of a proclamation from the king of England, calling upon the Circassians to defend their country; and that in the event of their requiring assistance, he would forthwith despatch a powerful fleet to their aid.³⁰

    The writer said, After the establishment of the Cossacks Tchernemorsky, subjects to Russia, on the opposite banks of the Kouban, and the predatory wars which ensued between them and this tribe, the latter, with the family of its chief, have become nearly extinct. It was from this prince that the Turks obtained permission to establish themselves at Anapa in 1784, for the twofold purpose of protecting their subjects the Nogay and Krim Tartars, who had taken refuge among the mountaineers on the subjection of their country by Russia, and as a station for commercial purposes.³¹

    The book mentioned that Anapa and the surrounding country, formerly belonged to a small warlike tribe of Circassians, called Skhegake. Then added, to remind of the relations between Circassian and other political entities around the Mediterranean and beyond: The fortress was built upon the ruins of one originally constructed by the Genoese, and from this epoch the inhabitants of the Caucasus may date the commencement of the long wars which have desolated their country down to the present day.³²

    The author elaborates on the developments of capturing Anapa. Still its misfortunes were not yet terminated; for in 1828 our countryman. Admiral Greig, left Sevastopol with a Russian fleet, consisting of eight vessels of the line, four frigates, and twenty corvettes, besides transports &c.; Prince Menstchikow, who commanded a large force by land, the town and garrison were subdued, after a murderous siege of nearly three months.³³

    The Circassians fought the Russians with the Turks. The obstinate resistance made by the Turkish garrison this time, was partly referable to the bravery of their allies, the Circassians, who fought courageously to the last, and were so enraged with the governor, Osman Pacha, for delivering up their fortress to a foreign enemy, that they vented their fury by detaining as slaves every Turk who had fled to them for protection. Since this time it has continued in possession of the Russians, and the sword of the invader has never been replaced in its scabbard.³⁴

    The strategic location of Anapa beside its importance for the Russian plans of fighting the Circassians. That the possession of Anapa has opened a wide field of enterprise for Russia cannot be doubted, as it offers a tempting opportunity of bringing under her sceptre the various warlike tribes of the Caucasus; still, it appears a difficult undertaking to conquer a people, enthusiastic lovers of liberty, who, entrenched behind their native mountains, have down to the present day bid defiance to the attempts made by the most powerful nations to bring them under subjection. The military operations of Russia have not hitherto been productive of any decided advantage, and the hatred of the people was never more violently excited than at the present moment.³⁵

    The author reports reaching Soudjouk-Kale (Sujuk-Kale), located about thirty miles south-east of Anapa.³⁶ The author continues, "From the accounts we received from the Russian officers, it would appear that the taking of Soudjouk-Kale was attended with a great loss of life, the Circassians having fought with the bravery of desperation.

    But how was it possible that these mountaineers, with no other weapons that rifle, sword, bows, and arrows, nor other bulwark than their own breasts, could resist, with any prospect of success, the attack of well-disciplined army of 15,000 men, led on by an experienced General, M. Willemineff, assisted by a regular train of artillery and every other materiel of war?³⁷

    Sujuk-Kale (founded 1722) was destroyed by Russian troops in 1812, where Novorossiisk was founded in 1838 as a fortification for the Russian Empire.³⁸

    When approaching Soudjouk-Kale, Spencer said, In truth, such was the beauty of the scenery and the variety of the prospects, that we glided almost imperceptibly along till we arrived at Soudjouk-Kale, a fortress of which the Russians obtained possession, after a sharp contest with the Circassians, only a few days previous to our arrival; and though composed of nothing but a heap of ruins, yet the position is most important, being situated on a splendid bay.³⁹

    The book gave a description on the nature of the matters related to the Circassians and the offenses that took place against them. It stated, Not only to obtain possession of the heights which command the valley and the entrance to the port, but to fortify them. This, however, cannot be done except at a great expense and fearful sacrifice of life; and even should the Russians succeed in the enterprise, I very much doubt their power either of being able to hold forcible possession, or allowed the necessary time to fortify them, owing to the murderous and harassing warfare continually carried on by the natives.⁴⁰

    Then the traveler remarked on what he saw, which was inspired by the painful reality. The shades of evening were fast deepening into the gloom of night as we arrived at the camp of Soudjouk-Kale, which then displayed a scene that will ever live in my recollection. The villages of the unhappy mountaineers still blazing on the sides of the hills, together with the numerous watch-fires of the soldiers in various parts of the camp, shed their lurid glare, not only over the moving multitude, but the whole surrounding country to the highest peaks of the towering mountains, mimicking the bright blaze of the noon-day luminary of heaven.⁴¹

    Every occasion that shows vulgarity and injustice, the Cossack element is found present in the service of the empire. Besides the regular Russian troops, there were the Tchernemorsky Cossacks, and those of the Don, mounted on their fleet steeds, and brandishing their long lances in the air; and as the governor-general had been expected, the whole of the military were habited in full uniform. The costume of the Ataman, and the officers belonging to the Tchernemorsky corps, could not be exceeded in splendour, being more oriental than European.⁴²

    Seemingly, a fighter’s break showed a scope of euphoria that went to the scope of rejoicing in lust and pleasures. The bands of the various regiments were performing their most lively airs; aides-de-camp galloping to and fro; here a group of soldiers playing at cards on the head of a drum, there creating thirst by swallowing copious draughts of the beloved vodka; in one place chanting with a loud roar their national airs, and in another tripping the wild dance, the barina, to strains equally wild.⁴³

    Spencer was interested in seeking information regarding future war plans. During the time I remained on shore, I had for my companions several young officers of the guards, who communicated to me a variety of interesting particulars respecting the Circassians and their mode of warfare, together with the plans proposed to be carried into execution for the purpose of reducing them to subjection.⁴⁴

    The details revealed proof that hard work had been exploited by the Russian authorities in all matters that led to their control over all areas that led to their objectives of domination and occupation. "Among other things, it is the intention of the Russian government to occupy every port, bay, and landing-place on the coast of Circassia; and to build forts in the most eligible situations, which are to be connected with each other by means of military roads, intended to be conducted along the heights.

    Undoubtedly, if this plan can be accomplished, the mountaineers will be prevented from having any intercourse with their neighbours the Turks, who are known to aid them with their counsels, and supply them with ammunition; and as they are entirely destitute of salt, powder, and every species of manufacture, this scheme, it is presumed, will have the effect of sowing dissension among the chiefs, breaking the unconquerable spirit of the people, and of eventually reducing them to submission.⁴⁵

    The author goes on explaining his expectations in light of what he saw. "This is the more practicable, as Russia is already master of the right bank of the Kouban, the provinces of Mingrelia, Immeretia, and Gourial; together with those countries lying between the Caspian Sea, and the Alps of the Caucasus.

    For this object, Russia has been labouring during the last half century; for this, the effeminate inhabitants of province after province have been subdued, till nothing now remains to complete the circle, except the Circassian coast on the Black Sea; to effect which I have no doubt all the energies and resources of this vast empire will be directed.⁴⁶

    He then stated a description of a Circassian noble who recently betrayed his people and joined the Russians. This marked a coincidence that occurred in his place of residence. He also reported that the noble wore his distinguished national dress. "Perhaps the greatest novelty of the camp at Soudjouk-Kale, was a native Circassian, a Pchikhan, or noble, who had recently joined the Russian standard. The fairer portion of our party thought proper to confer upon him the name of Jupiter; but I should be inclined to call him an Antinous.

    "His head and features, truly Grecian, were strikingly handsome; while the luxuriant beard, dark mustachios, and turbaned cap of the finest black Astrakan, imparted an expression of manly beauty and character; and, in truth, his figure for athletic

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