Georgian Military Forces of 19th Century

In December 1800, Emperor Paul I signed the statement on abolition of Kartl-Kakheti Kingdom and its inclusion into the composition of Russia. In March 1801, Paul I was murdered by the conspirators. Though newly enthroned Emperor Alexander I disagreed in almost everything with his father, on 12 September 1801 he signed a new statement eliminating Kartl-Kakheti Kingdom and declaring it as the province of Russia. Since 1802 Kartl-Kakheti was subject to Russian rule. From the outset Russia desired to annex entire Georgia. This desire and its rule in Kartl-Kakheti caused dissatisfaction of the neighboring Moslem states. Russia engaged in war with Iran, Turkey and Dagestan. In such situation, the issue of use of Georgian military potential was put on agenda. Manifest on integration of Georgia to Russia provided for exemption of Georgian people from military duties. Russia attempted to avoid further irritation of already dissatisfied people. Therefore, there was need to involve Georgians into the wars of Russia Empire in a form acceptable for Georgians and the imperial government found that 'militia' would be such form. Russian government, in particular, initially P. Tsitsianov, in 1803-1806 used King Erekle's principle of the 'watch unit'. The difference was that while the 'watch unit' of Erekle II served to the interests of Kartl-Kakheti, militia had to satisfy the imperial ambitions of Russia in Caucasus and Near East. Russia attempted to establish gradually the form of regular military service in Georgia to fully take advantage of Georgian military potential. Therefore, participation of Kartl-Kakheti population was frequently forced. And Georgian soldiers responded adequately. Up to present, events in Eastern Georgia in 1829 were known as 'rebellion of the peasants'. As a result of studying of documentary materials it would be reasonable to conclude that the driving force of this commotion was Georgian nobility and this was anti-Russian rebellion. Georgians could not accept servicing in Russian army but they have never refused to fight for their native land. Georgian military forces had the most significant role in regaining of Georgian lands. In the 19th century Russian army has not been engaged in any significant battle where at least few Georgians have not participated. Sons of Georgian people have participated in each and every battle at the Caucasian front. Georgian riders and commanders have continued the traditions of their forefathers with dignity and demonstrated, once more, military talent and combat capabilities of the Georgians to both, the enemies and supporters. Let this work be a humble input to immortalizing their memory.