On the participation of Orenburg Cossacks in the Pugachev rebellion: historiography and folklore

This article analyzes different interpretations in pre-revolutionary, Soviet, and modern Russian historiography of the degree of the Orenburg Cossacks’ participation in the Pugachev rebellion. The author also explores Cossack folklore in the form of tales and songs, which embodies the images of Pugachev and his supporters and opponents. The focus is on the Chelyabinsk episode of the Pugachev rebellion, in which a significant role was played by the Cossacks who supported Peter the Third. It is emphasized that Pugachev’s power in Chelyabinsk for two months (February-April 1774) was built on Cossack traditions in its forms and functions. These facts give grounds to refute the assertions of some pre-revolutionary authors about insignificant support of Pugachev and his supporters by the Orenburg Cossacks.