This book illuminates one of the world's most troubled regions from a unique perspective-that of a prominent Russian intellectual. Valery Tishkov, a leading ethnographer who has also served in several important political posts, examines the evolution of the war in Chechnya that erupted in 1994, untangling the myths, the long-held resentments, and the ideological manipulations that have fueled the crisis. In particular, he explores the key themes of nationalism and violence that feed the turmoil there. Forceful, original, and timely, his study combines extensive interview material, historical perspectives, and deep local knowledge. Tishkov sheds light on Chechnya in particular and on how secessionist conflicts can escalate into violent conflagrations in general. With its balanced assessments of both Russian and Chechen perspectives, this book will be essential reading for people seeking to understand the role of Islamic fundamentalist nationalism in the contemporary world. Illustrations: 1 map
Author(s): Valery Tishkov
Edition: 1
Year: 2004
Language: English
Pages: 302
FOREWORD......Page 10
PREFACE......Page 16
1 Ethnography and Theory......Page 22
2 Indigenization, Deportation, and Return......Page 37
3 Contradictory Modernization......Page 53
4 Chechen Images......Page 70
5 The Road to War......Page 78
6 Dzhokhar: Hero and Devil......Page 96
7 The Sons of War......Page 111
8 The Culture of Hostage-Taking......Page 128
9 Violence in Secessionist Warfare......Page 148
10 The Impact on Family Life......Page 172
11 Religion and the Chechen Conflict......Page 185
12 The Myth and Reality of the “Great Victory”......Page 201
13 An Ideology of Extremes......Page 217
14 Chechnya as a Stage and a Role......Page 231
NOTES......Page 254
MAIN CHARACTERS......Page 260
INFORMANTS AND INTERVIEWERS......Page 268
SELECT BIBLIOGRAPHY......Page 272
INDEX......Page 290
