Georgia Under the Rule of Russia for 187 Years!

The country of Georgia was part of the Russian Empire from 1801 to 1918. Throughout the period of 1450-1750, the Muslim Ottoman and Persian empires had fought over various fragmented Georgian kingdoms.

During 18th century, Russia emerged as the new imperial power in the region and as Russia was an Orthodox Christian country like Georgia, the Georgians preferred seeking the Russian help.

The Georgian kingdom became a Russian Protectorate in 1783 and aborted its dependence on the monarch of Persia.

In 1801 Georgia was completely annexed by Russia, and made it as a region of Russia. Until 1918 for 117 years, Georgia remained as a part of the Russian Empire.

Russian rule offered the Georgians, security from external invasions but, naturally Georgians who have an unique language and culture would never prefer to be the subjugate of any empire including Russia.

Discontent with the Russian authorities, Georgians led a national movement during the late 19th century. Georgia finally won its independence in 1918, with the efforts of Georgian nationalists' and socialists' and as a result of the collapse of the Russian Empire in World War-1.

However Georgia was able to remain as a successful independent country only for three years [1918-1921] after separating from the Russian Empire. The Red Army invasion on Georgia during 1921 resulted in Georgia becomes an integral part of the Soviet Socialist republic and remained as same for 70 years.

Just shortly before the collapse of the Soviet Union, on 9th April 1991, the Supreme Council of Georgia declared independence after a referendum held on 31st March 1991. Gamsakhurdia was elected as the first President of independent Georgia on 26-05-1991.