What is the South Caucasus and where is it geographically situated?

The South Caucasus is a geographical region located on the border between Eastern Europe and West Asia. It is characterized by its position straddling the southern part of the Caucasus Mountains. This region is known for its diverse terrain, including mountain ranges and lowlands, and serves as a crossroads between continents.

Which modern countries are typically included within the definition of the South Caucasus?

The South Caucasus generally encompasses the modern nations of Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan. These countries are sometimes collectively referred to as the Caucasian States. Their combined territory covers an area of approximately 186,100 square kilometers.

How does the South Caucasus relate to the broader Caucasus geographical region?

The South Caucasus, along with the North Caucasus, together forms the larger Caucasus geographical region. This larger region acts as a natural divider between Eurasia. The South Caucasus specifically refers to the southern portion of this mountainous area.

What characterizes the geopolitical landscape of the South Caucasus countries?

The countries within the South Caucasus have each pursued distinct geopolitical pathways since gaining independence. This dynamic situation contributes to the region's complexity and occasional instability, influenced by historical ties and regional power dynamics.

What geographical features define the South Caucasus region?

The South Caucasus spans the southern portion of the Caucasus Mountains and their associated lowlands. It extends from the southern part of the Main Caucasian Range in Russia down to the borders of Turkey and Armenia, and stretches from the Black Sea in the west to the Caspian Sea coast in the east.

Which major bodies of water are associated with the South Caucasus region?

The South Caucasus is bordered by two significant bodies of water: the Black Sea to the west and the Caspian Sea to the east. These seas have historically played roles in trade, transportation, and geopolitical influence in the region.

Which countries' territories are primarily located within the South Caucasus?

All of present-day Armenia is situated within the South Caucasus. Additionally, the majority of Georgia and Azerbaijan, including the exclave of Nakhchivan, also fall within this geographical designation.

Besides Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan, which other countries have territories included in the broader definition of the South Caucasus?

Parts of Iran and Turkey are also considered to be included within the region of the South Caucasus. This highlights the transcontinental nature of the area, bridging different cultural and political spheres.

What are the main products and resources of the South Caucasus region?

The South Caucasus is known for producing valuable resources such as oil and manganese ore. It also yields important agricultural products like tea, citrus fruits, and wine, reflecting its varied climate and fertile lands.

What factors contribute to the South Caucasus being a politically tense region?

The South Caucasus is considered one of the most politically tense regions in the post-Soviet area due to a complex mix of religions, ethno-linguistic groups, and historical rivalries. It contains heavily disputed territories, adding to its geopolitical complexity.

Which disputed areas are located within the South Caucasus?

The South Caucasus region contains two heavily disputed areas: Abkhazia and South Ossetia. These territories have been sources of conflict and political tension following the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

Which Russian-controlled territories were historically incorporated into the South Caucasus between 1878 and 1917?

Between 1878 and 1917, the Russian-controlled Kars Oblast and the county of Surmalu uezd (which is present-day Iğdır Province in Turkey) were incorporated into the South Caucasus. These annexations expanded the Russian Empire's influence in the region.

What are the modern names used to refer to the South Caucasus region?

The region is commonly referred to as the South Caucasus or Southern Caucasia. These terms are used in English and reflect its geographical position south of the main Caucasus mountain range.

What is the origin and meaning of the term "Transcaucasia"?

The term "Transcaucasia" is a Latin rendering of the Russian word "Zakavkazye," which translates to "beyond the Caucasus." This name implies a perspective from Russia, indicating the area situated on the other side of the Caucasus Mountains.

What ancient historians wrote about the indigenous peoples of the Caucasus?

Ancient Greek historians Herodotus, often called the "Father of History," and Strabo, a geographer and historian, both wrote about the autochthonous (indigenous) peoples of the Caucasus in their works. Their writings provide early accounts of the region's inhabitants and geography.

What groups settled in the Caucasus region during the Middle Ages, and what was their impact?

During the Middle Ages, various groups such as Scythians, Alani, Huns, Khazars, Arabs, Seljuk Turks, and Mongols settled in Caucasia. These migrations and invasions significantly influenced the culture of the South Caucasus peoples and facilitated the spread of Iranian languages and Islamic religion.

Which major empires have historically controlled or influenced the South Caucasus?

The South Caucasus has been under the influence or direct rule of numerous empires throughout history. These include the Achaemenid, Neo-Assyrian, Parthian, Roman, Sassanian, Byzantine, Umayyad, Abbasid, Mongol, Ottoman, and various Iranian (Safavid, Afsharid, Qajar) and Russian Empires.

What was the religious landscape of the South Caucasus like during antiquity, and how did it evolve?

During antiquity, Zoroastrianism became the dominant religion in the South Caucasus under various Iranian empires. However, with the rise of Christianity and the conversion of Caucasian kingdoms to this new faith, Zoroastrianism's prevalence declined, though it persisted due to lingering Persian influence. This religious dynamic often led to conflicts between empires aligned with Christianity (like Rome/Byzantium) and those aligned with Zoroastrianism or later Islam (like Persia).

What was the impact of the Umayyad Caliphate on the South Caucasus in the 8th century?

In the mid-8th century, the Umayyad armies captured Derbend during the Arab-Khazar wars. This event led to most of the South Caucasus becoming part of the Caliphate, facilitating the spread of Islam throughout the region.

How did the Russo-Persian Wars of the 19th century affect the South Caucasus?

The Russo-Persian Wars of the 19th century resulted in the Russian Empire conquering most of the South Caucasus from the Iranian Qajar dynasty. These wars severed historic regional ties with Iran and led to significant territorial changes formalized by treaties.

Which treaties concluded the Russo-Persian Wars of the 19th century, and what were their territorial outcomes for the region?

The Treaty of Gulistan, following the 1804-1813 war, forced Iran to cede territories including modern-day Dagestan, Eastern Georgia, and most of the Azerbaijan Republic to Russia. The Treaty of Turkmenchay, after the 1826-1828 war, resulted in Iran losing all of modern-day Armenia and the remaining parts of the contemporary Azerbaijani Republic that were still under Iranian control.

How did the Russian Empire administer the South Caucasus in the 19th century?

In 1844, the territories comprising present-day Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan were combined into a single czarist government-general. This administrative unit was termed a viceroyalty at various points between 1844 and 1917. Following the 1877-78 Russo-Turkish War, Russia also annexed Kars, Ardahan, Agri, and Batumi from the Ottomans, incorporating them into this administrative structure as the Kars Oblast.

What were the two major periods of political unification for the South Caucasus in the 20th century?

The South Caucasus region was unified into a single political entity twice in the 20th century. First, as the Transcaucasian Democratic Federative Republic from April 9, 1918, to May 26, 1918, and second, as the Transcaucasian Socialist Federative Soviet Republic from March 12, 1922, to December 5, 1936.

What happened to the South Caucasus countries after the dissolution of the Soviet Union?

After the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, the three South Caucasus countries—Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia—regained their independence. They had previously existed as separate Soviet Socialist Republics within the larger USSR.

What conflict in 2008 impacted the stability of the South Caucasus?

The Russo-Georgian War, which took place in 2008, contributed to further instability in the South Caucasus region. This conflict underscored the region's intricate mix of religions and ethno-linguistic groups, making it as complex as the Middle East.

How have the geopolitical strategies of Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan differed since their independence?

Since independence, Georgia has pursued integration into wider European society, opening relations with NATO and the European Union following the Rose Revolution in 2004. Armenia has continued to foster relations with Russia while also developing ties with the EU. Azerbaijan, conversely, relies less on Russia and has strategically partnered with Turkey.

Which international organizations have all three South Caucasus countries as members?

All three South Caucasus countries are members of the Council of Europe, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), and the European Political Community. They also participate in the EU's Eastern Partnership and the Euronest Parliamentary Assembly. Furthermore, they are members of NATO's Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council and Partnership for Peace programs.

What significant development occurred regarding Georgia's relationship with the European Union in late 2023?

On November 8, 2023, the European Commission issued a recommendation to grant EU candidate status to Georgia. This recommendation was confirmed on December 14, 2023, making Georgia the first country in the South Caucasus to receive this status.

What progress has Armenia made towards European Union accession?

On March 12, 2024, the European Parliament passed a resolution confirming that Armenia meets the requirements of Maastricht Treaty Article 49, indicating the country may apply for EU membership. Subsequently, on February 12, 2025, Armenia's parliament approved a bill officially endorsing its EU accession.

What does the historical population table for the South Caucasus show?

The table provides historical population data for Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia from 1897 up to the period of 2009-2014. It illustrates the demographic changes in these countries over more than a century, including periods like World War I and the Russian Revolution.

What was the population of Armenia in 1897 according to the provided table?

According to the table, the population of Armenia in 1897 was 798,853. It's important to note that some entries in the table are marked as needing better sources.

What was the total population of the South Caucasus in 1970?

In 1970, the combined total population of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia was 12,295,312. This figure reflects the demographic growth within the region during the Soviet era.

How did the population of Azerbaijan change between 1926 and 1939?

The population of Azerbaijan increased from 2,314,571 in 1926 to 3,205,150 in 1939, according to the provided table. This represents a significant growth of over 890,000 people in just 13 years.

What is Vitis vinifera, and where is it native?

Vitis vinifera is the wine-producing vine species. It is native to areas including modern-day Turkey, Georgia, Armenia, and Iran, which are located within the broader South Caucasus region.

What is the prevailing theory regarding the origin of wine production?

Some experts speculate that the South Caucasus region may be the birthplace of wine production. Archaeological evidence, including carbon-dated grape seeds, supports the ancient origins of winemaking in this area.

What is the earliest archaeological evidence for wine found in the South Caucasus?

Archaeological excavations have uncovered grape seeds in the South Caucasus dating back to as early as 8000-5000 BC. Wine found in Iran has been dated to around 7400 BC and 5000 BC, while wine found in Georgia dates back to approximately 8000 BC.

Where was the earliest known winery discovered?

The earliest known winery, dated to approximately 4000 BC, was discovered in Armenia. This finding further supports the region's deep historical connection to winemaking.

What does the "See also" section suggest regarding related topics?

The "See also" section lists related topics such as the broader Caucasus region, specific ethnic groups like Caucasus Greeks, Eastern Europe, post-Soviet states, and various portals related to Azerbaijan and Georgia. It also includes links to the EU Strategy for the South Caucasus and Ibero-Caucasian languages.

What kind of information is available through the "External links" section?

The external links provide access to related media on Wikimedia Commons, academic journals covering the South Caucasus like the Caucasian Journal and Caucasian Review of International Affairs, and encyclopedic articles from sources like The Columbia Encyclopedia and Britannica. It also includes links to historical references from Peter Kropotkin and the 1911 Encyclopædia Britannica.

What is the significance of the "Authority control" section?

The "Authority control" section provides links to various databases (like FAST, GND, Library of Congress, Czech Republic, Israel, and Yale LUX) that catalog information about the South Caucasus. These links help users find standardized information and related resources across different library and archival systems.

What does the infobox image depict?

The infobox image shows a 1994 map of the Caucasus region prepared by the U.S. State Department. This map visually delineates the geographical area of the Caucasus, including the South Caucasus.

What are the time zones observed in the South Caucasus region?

The South Caucasus region observes multiple time zones, including UTC+04:00, UTC+03:30, and UTC+03:00. This variation reflects the different countries and potentially different administrative divisions within the region.

What is the highest mountain mentioned in the South Caucasus region?

The highest mountain noted for the South Caucasus is Shkhara, which stands at 5,203 meters (17,070 feet). Shkhara is located on the border between Georgia and Russia.

What historical events significantly impacted the population figures in the South Caucasus around 1920-1922?

The table indicates a decrease in the total population of the South Caucasus from approximately 5.99 million in 1914 to 5.7 million in 1916-17, and further to 5.32 million in 1920-22. This decline is attributed to the effects of World War I and the Russian Revolution, which caused widespread disruption and loss of life.

What was the population of Georgia in 1926 according to the table?

The population of Georgia in 1926 was recorded as 2,666,494 in the provided table. This data point helps track the demographic recovery and growth in the post-revolutionary period.

What does the "See also" section list regarding geographical areas?

The "See also" section lists related geographical areas such as the broader Caucasus region, the North Caucasus (also known as Ciscaucasia), and Eastern Europe. It also includes links to post-Soviet states and general regions of Europe.

What is the significance of the "EU Strategy for the South Caucasus"?

The mention of the "EU Strategy for the South Caucasus" in the "See also" section indicates a formal policy framework established by the European Union concerning its engagement with the countries of this region. This strategy likely outlines the EU's political, economic, and security objectives for the area.

What does the term "Ibero-Caucasian languages" refer to in the context of the South Caucasus?

The mention of "Ibero-Caucasian languages" suggests a linguistic classification or theory that groups certain languages spoken in the Caucasus region. This term points to historical linguistic connections and potential origins within the area.

Which ancient empires influenced the South Caucasus, leading to religious convergence and conflict?

The South Caucasus experienced religious convergence and conflict due to the influence of empires like the Roman and Byzantine Empires on one side, and successive Persian empires (and later Muslim-ruled empires) on the other. This dynamic shaped the region's religious and cultural history.

South Caucasus Wiki: Caucasus Crossroads: A Regional Exploration

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Overview

Defining the Region

The South Caucasus, also known as Transcaucasia, is a geographical region situated at the confluence of Eastern Europe and West Asia, encompassing the southern reaches of the Caucasus Mountains. This strategically vital area is broadly defined by the modern nations of Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan, often referred to collectively as the Caucasian States. Spanning approximately 186,100 square kilometers, it represents a dynamic geopolitical landscape where distinct historical trajectories and cultural influences converge.

Geopolitical Significance

Positioned between major powers like Russia, Turkey, and Iran, the South Caucasus has historically been an arena for political, military, and cultural exchange and conflict. Its complex mix of religions and ethno-linguistic groups contributes to its intricate geopolitical dynamics, making it as complex as regions like the Middle East.

Ancient Roots

This region is also recognized as one of the cradles of viticulture, being a native area for the wine-producing vine, Vitis vinifera. Archaeological findings suggest wine production here dates back millennia, underscoring its deep historical connection to agriculture and culture.

Geography

Mountainous Terrain

The South Caucasus is characterized by its dramatic mountainous terrain, spanning the southern portion of the Caucasus Mountains and their adjacent lowlands. It lies at the geographical boundary between Europe and Asia. The region encompasses the southern part of the Greater Caucasus range, the entirety of the Lesser Caucasus range, the Colchis Lowlands, the Kura-Aras Lowlands, Qaradagh, the Talysh Mountains, the Lankaran Lowland, Javakheti, and the eastern Armenian Highland.

Water Bodies

The region is bordered by two major bodies of water: the Black Sea to the west and the Caspian Sea to the east. These waterways have historically played significant roles in trade, transportation, and cultural exchange, shaping the region's development and connectivity.

Area and Boundaries

The total area of the three primary South Caucasian countries—Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan—measures approximately 186,100 square kilometers (71,850 square miles). The region's boundaries extend from southwestern Russia's Main Caucasian Range south to the borders of Turkey and Iran.

Etymology

Naming Conventions

The region is commonly referred to as the South Caucasus or Southern Caucasia. Its historical name, Transcaucasia, originates from the Russian term 'Zakavkazye,' which translates to 'beyond the Caucasus.' This nomenclature reflects a geographical perspective from the north, analogous to terms like Transnistria or Transleithania, indicating a location relative to a significant geographical feature.

Linguistic Roots

The names used in local languages—such as Armenian 'Haravayin Kovkas,' Azerbaijani 'Cənubi Qafqaz,' Abkhaz 'Agyrt Kavkaz,' and Georgian 'Samkhret Kavkasia'—all convey the meaning of 'Southern Caucasus,' highlighting a shared regional identity despite linguistic diversity.

Historical Trajectory

Ancient and Medieval Periods

Ancient historians like Herodotus and Strabo documented the indigenous peoples of this region. During the Middle Ages, the South Caucasus experienced significant cultural shifts due to invasions and settlements by various groups, including Scythians, Alans, Huns, Khazars, Arabs, Seljuk Turks, and Mongols. These interactions, alongside Middle Eastern influences, led to the dissemination of Iranian languages and the Islamic religion.

Ancient Kingdoms: Colchis, Urartu, Iberia, Armenia, and Caucasian Albania flourished, later falling under the influence of Iranian empires like the Achaemenids, Parthians, and Sassanians. Zoroastrianism was dominant before the rise of Christianity.
Medieval Empires: The region was part of the Umayyad Caliphate, the Kingdom of Georgia, and later influenced by Seljuk, Mongol, Turkic, Safavid, Ottoman, Afsharid, and Qajar dynasties.

Russian Imperial Era

In the 19th century, following two Russo-Persian Wars (1804-1813 and 1826-1828), the Russian Empire annexed most of the South Caucasus from Persia. These conflicts, culminating in the Treaties of Gulistan and Turkmenchay, irrevocably severed historical ties with Iran. Subsequent Russo-Turkish wars further expanded Russian control, incorporating territories like western Georgia.

Treaty of Gulistan (1813): Iran ceded Dagestan, Eastern Georgia, and most of modern-day Azerbaijan to Russia.
Treaty of Turkmenchay (1828): Iran lost all of modern-day Armenia and the remaining parts of contemporary Azerbaijan under Russian control.
Post-1829: Russia annexed territories from the Ottoman Empire, integrating them into the South Caucasus administrative unit.

Modern Independence

Following the Russian Revolution in 1918, the region briefly united as the Transcaucasian Democratic Federative Republic, later becoming the Transcaucasian Socialist Federative Soviet Republic within the Soviet Union. Upon the dissolution of the USSR in 1991, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia regained independence. The region continues to navigate complex geopolitical relationships, with Georgia aligning more closely with the EU and NATO, Armenia maintaining ties with Russia, and Azerbaijan partnering with Turkey.

Independence (1991): Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia became sovereign states.
Geopolitical Dynamics: Varying relationships with Russia, Turkey, and European institutions (EU, NATO).
Regional Initiatives: Participation in the EU's Eastern Partnership and other intergovernmental organizations.
Recent Developments: Georgia received EU candidate status in late 2023, and Armenia has formalized closer ties with Western partners.

Viticulture Heritage

Cradle of Wine

The South Caucasus, encompassing parts of modern-day Turkey, Georgia, Armenia, and Iran, is recognized as a native region for the wine-producing vine, Vitis vinifera. Many scholars consider this area to be the birthplace of wine production, supported by extensive archaeological evidence.

Ancient Origins

Archaeological excavations and carbon dating of grape seeds have revealed evidence of wine production dating back to 8000–5000 BC. Specifically, wine found in Iran dates to circa 7400 BC, while wine discovered in Georgia has been dated to circa 8000 BC. The earliest known winery, discovered in Armenia, is estimated to be from circa 4000 BC.

Sources

Cited Materials

Further Exploration

External Resources

Caucasian Journal – A multilingual online journal focused on the South Caucasus.
Caucasian Review of International Affairs – An academic journal covering the South Caucasus.
Caucasus Analytical Digest – A journal offering insights into the South Caucasus.
Transcaucasia – Entry from Encyclopaedia Britannica.
Transcaucasia – Entry from the 9th Edition of Encyclopædia Britannica (via Wikisource).

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "South Caucasus" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about south_caucasus while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

george watson's college

list of ambassadors of the united states to niger

insurgency

nova sport czech republic and slovakia

jewish combat organization

ian gilmour baron gilmour of craigmillar

mascogos

wilson 1944 film

han dynasty

thyssen-bornemisza museum

References

"Caucasus and Iran" in Encyclopaedia Iranica, Multiple Authors

Allen F. Chew. An Atlas of Russian History: Eleven Centuries of Changing Borders. Yale University Press, 1967. pp 74

Armenia formalizes closer ties with the West

Information from the 2001 Armenian National Census

But was it plonk?, Boston Globe

A full list of references for this article are available at the South Caucasus Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional geographical, historical, or geopolitical consultation. Always refer to official documentation and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Caucasus Crossroads

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Defining the Region

Geopolitical Significance

Ancient Roots

Geography

Mountainous Terrain

Water Bodies

Area and Boundaries

Etymology

Naming Conventions

Linguistic Roots

Historical Trajectory

Ancient and Medieval Periods

Russian Imperial Era

Modern Independence

Viticulture Heritage

Cradle of Wine

Ancient Origins

Related Topics

Regional Connections

Sources

Cited Materials

Further Exploration

External Resources

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

References

References

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

Caucasus Crossroads

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview 🗺️

📍 Defining the Region

🌍 Geopolitical Significance

🍇 Ancient Roots

Geography 🌍

⛰️ Mountainous Terrain

🌊 Water Bodies

📏 Area and Boundaries

Etymology 🗣️

🏷️ Naming Conventions

🗣️ Linguistic Roots

Historical Trajectory 📜

⏳ Ancient and Medieval Periods

🇷🇺 Russian Imperial Era

🕊️ Modern Independence

Viticulture Heritage 🍇

🏺 Cradle of Wine

📅 Ancient Origins

Related Topics 🔗

🌐 Regional Connections

Sources 📚

📖 Cited Materials

Further Exploration 🌐

🔗 External Resources

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Defining the Region

Geopolitical Significance

Ancient Roots

Geography

Mountainous Terrain

Water Bodies

Area and Boundaries

Etymology

Naming Conventions

Linguistic Roots

Historical Trajectory

Ancient and Medieval Periods

Russian Imperial Era

Modern Independence

Viticulture Heritage

Cradle of Wine

Ancient Origins

Related Topics

Regional Connections

Sources

Cited Materials

Further Exploration

External Resources

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice