Effendi N. Katkhanov and sheikh Uzun-Khadji: vectors of ethno-religious consolidation of the North Caucasus highlanders in the revolutionary period (1917-1920)

The article examines the influence of the Islamic factor on the revolutionary processes in the North Caucasus region. Particular attention is focused on the activities of two spiritual leaders of the region - N. Katkhanov and Uzun-Khadji, who attempted to create mountain polities in the conditions of revolutionary turbulence. It is emphasized that the Kabardian effendi N. Katkhanov considered a possible synthesis of socialism and Shariah, based on which he tried to unite Muslims in the struggle for Soviet power, but did not consider the scenario of Kabarda’s secession from Soviet Russia. Unlike N. Katkhanov, the Avar mullah Uzun-Haji proclaimed the creation of the Shariah monarchy, officially called the North Caucasian Emirate. Uzun-Khadzhi fought against the regime of A. Denikin under the slogans of protecting the Muslim faith and, as a result, sought to achieve the independence of the North Caucasus. The article also scrutinizes the Bolsheviks’ interaction with Islamic movements in the region.