King Erekle II and the Russian-Georgian Treaty of 1783 - Myths and Reality

As a result of a massive effort put forth by the Russian government, on 24 July 1783, a treaty was signed at the fortress of Georgievsk that made the Kingdom of Kartli-Kakheti a subordinate of the Russian Empire, paving the way to Russia’s establishment in South Caucasia. For years, this episode had an ideological significance and was infused with propagandistic myths. Even today, the Kremlin is still using the same subject to further its imperialist interests.

 

Through the use of primary sources, the book examines the totality of those reasons that led to the ratification of this treaty. In light of the political state of affairs in Caucasia, the Black Sea region and the near east, the aims, goals and projects of the Georgian, as well as Russian side are considered.

 

The reader will also discover many other undeniable historical facts which shed light on how dramatically the foreign political and economic situation of the Kingdom of Kartli-Kakheti has deteriorated over the years immediately following the signing of the Treaty.