Mining in Yakutia during World War I and revolutionary changes (1914-1923)

The study discusses the historical background to mining industry in Yakutia during World War I and the next years of revolutionary transformations. Based on archival and published sources, the authors consider the significant milestones in lead, salt, and gold mining industries. The relevant enterprises developed products that were desperately needed for the economy of Yakutia and the country and the survival of the local population. In 1914-1923, the Lead Smelter of A.A. Semenov, the Kempendyai and Baginsky salt producing plants were launched through the efforts of entrepreneurs, and the first steps were taken to create the gold mining industry. The authors concluded that the activities of mining industries allowed one to meet the challenges of satisfying the needs of hunting industry, fishery and other needs of the regions’ population in the war and revolutionary period.