Russia in the late imperial period: regional aspects of political modernization (on the example of the North Caucasus)

The article is devoted to the study of political modernization in Russia in the 19th - the beginning of the 20th century on the example of the North Caucasus. The author identifies historical prerequisites of modernization, and highlights three successive stages of transformation. The article analyzes the progressive changes in the system of management of the region, and shows the reasons that hindered the implementation of reforms. Based on the study, the author concludes that modernization has met with opposition in the higher echelons of imperial power. It was political indecision and inertia of the supreme power that did not allow for much-needed modernization, which ultimately led the country to a historic catastrophe.