The legacy of Russian emigration - a current source of formation of national identity

The article is a review of the third issue of the scientific journal of the St. Petersburg Theological Academy «Russian-Byzantine Bulletin» for 2024. The materials of the issue are devoted to four outstanding cultural, scientific, religious and public f igures, mainly representatives of the first wave of the White Russian emigration: philosopher I. A. Ilyin, writer I. S. Shmelev, Metropolitan Anthony (Khrapovitsky), and Admiral A. V. Kolchak. It is shown that these figures left a significant mark on the history of Russian thought, literature, the Russian Orthodox Church and the Russian state in the 20th century. It is emphasized that this issue of the Russo-Byzantine Herald does not aim to “canonize” their figures in the eyes of the general public, but shows that the researchers’ appeal to study their heritage and life experience is of great relevance. Scientific disclosure of the ideas and deeds of these worthy sons of Russia should help develop a distinctive national identity - the basis of a spiritually healthy and cohesive society capable of withstanding numerous modern challenges.