The Role of Historical Narratives in Shaping the Civic Identity of Youth (the Case of the North Caucasus)

The article examines the formation of youth civic identity in a multicultural and multi-confessional region in the context of the influence of competing historical narratives among the peoples of the North Caucasus. The research results demonstrate that historical narratives are an important resource in the formation of civic identity. It is found that the prevailing national discourse, emphasizing the voluntary incorporation of the peoples of the Caucasus into Russia and their shared heroism in the Great Patriotic War, contributes to the creation of an integrated civic identity (“rossiyane” – Russians). At the same time, local ethnic narratives, often based on tragic historical events (such as the Caucasian War and deportations), reinforce the ethnic component, which in some cases can lead to its conflict with civic identity. Furthermore, data obtained through qualitative research methods are analyzed. In conclusion, it is stated that it is relevant to form a comprehensive approach in educational and youth policy that would integrate all-Russian values with the preservation of the historical uniqueness of the cultures of the North Caucasian peoples, thereby promoting the formation of a harmonious “multi-level” identity.