The Role of Local History in the Formation of Regional Identity (On the Example of Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug – Ugra)

The article explores the role of local history studies as a significant factor in the formation of regional identity, exemplified by the case of Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Okrug – Ugra. It provides an analysis of the con-cepts of identity and local history studies, investigates specific practices implemented to foster the latter, and examines the contribution of prominent individuals and well-known figures in strengthening the sense of belonging to the region, preserving historical memory, and transmitting cultural heritage. The author posits that local history studies, functioning as an interdisciplinary field, plays a crucial role in the formation and maintenance of regional identity, acting as a link between local history, cultural heritage, and collective memory. Its significance lies in the actualization and consolida-tion of unique characteristics of the territory, which facilitates the construction of an image of the region as an inde-pendent socio-cultural space, thereby allowing for the construction of regional identity.