The Circassian Diaspora: Genocide, Exile and Return

The Circassians are recognized historically as the indigenous people of Circassia, who lived in their homeland in the North-Caucasus for thousands of years. Before the Russian invasion, Circassia was a small independent nation. They endured high costs to preserve their identity and defend their homeland in the Caucasus. Circassian society was organized around strong community ties, vibrant cultural traditions, and a deep connection to their mountainous homeland. Their economy thrived on agriculture, craftsmanship, and trade, while their unique language and customs flourished, passed down through generations. Despite external pressures, Circassians maintained their autonomy and rich cultural legacy, defining themselves as resilient and fiercely independent.

The Circassian population was traditionally divided into multiple tribes, each with its own distinct dialect and regional customs. Major tribes included the Kabardians, Shapsugs, Abzakhs, Bzhedugs, and Hatukuays, spread across strategic areas of the North Caucasus. Geographically, Circassia encompassed the fertile plains and rugged mountain ranges between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, extending from the Kuban River in the north to the highlands of the Caucasus Mountains in the south. This unique geography not only influenced their lifestyle but also fortified their stronghold against invasions for centuries.

The Circassian language, known as "Adyghe," is part of the Northwest Caucasian language family, consisting of two primary dialects: Kabardian (Eastern Adyghe) and Western Adyghe. These dialects reflect the rich linguistic diversity and deep-rooted cultural identity that characterized Circassian life for centuries. Cultural expressions such as dance, music, and storytelling played significant roles in community life, binding families and preserving history. The transmission of folklore and oral traditions kept the spirit of Circassian unity alive, even in times of external threat.

The independence and existence of Circassia were shattered by the Russo-Circassian War. Following their final defeat in 1864, most Circassians were forced into exile. The end of the war in 1864, followed by forced expulsion and genocide led to the tragic reality of the Circassians being dispersed across many geographical and political regions around the world. As a result of the Tsarist exile, the indigenous population of the entire north-western Caucasus was reduced by a massive 94 percent, with less than 10 percent remaining in their homeland.

Circassians were driven from their homeland and resettled in various areas, including Turkey, Jordan, Syria, Israel, Germany, the United States, Saudi Arabia, Libya, Iraq, Iran, and Egypt. Historically, they also settled in the Balkans (Bulgaria, Kosovo, Romania). In places like the Ottoman Empire, Circassians largely kept to themselves and maintained their separate identity, never forgetting their homeland for which they continually yearned. They established community networks to preserve their culture and heritage amidst foreign surroundings.

Despite the hardships they faced after being expelled, the Circassians maintained their identity and culture. They built new lives while maintaining their cultural ties, even winning the confidence of those who were supposed to absorb them. For instance, Circassians in Jordan became part of the urban middle class, working in government, military, and intelligence, and gaining significant representation in parliament and the executive branch. They formed a self-image shaped by their experiences as displaced people and as settlers, contributing to their host nations while safeguarding their traditions.

Today, significant Circassian diaspora communities exist in numerous countries, including Turkey, Jordan, Syria, Israel, Germany, the United States, Saudi Arabia, Libya, Iraq, Iran, and Egypt. The largest diaspora population is in Turkey, estimated at nearly six million, accounting for almost 80 percent of the overall community. Another source states about 6 million people are diaspora, including 1.5 million citizens of Turkey. In Jordan, an estimated 17% of the community still speaks Adyghe, reflecting strong cultural preservation efforts in the region.

Circassians in Syria are estimated to be around 1% of the population, and in Israel, they number approximately 4,000-5,000 residing mainly in the villages of Kfar Kama in the Galilee, and Rehaniya. Small, largely urban communities exist in the United States, and there are communities in various European countries. These communities, though scattered, maintain deep connections to their heritage and continue to practice their customs, especially through cultural centers and social gatherings.

Despite the hardships and the circumstances that affected the diaspora, their bond with their historic homeland and their aspirations for a bright future help them maintain a sense of belonging to their nation. Circassian communities have worked tirelessly to preserve their language, culture, and identity. In diaspora communities, they have established cultural associations and foundations to keep their traditions alive. Advisory councils called "Adyghe Khase" exist globally, serving as unifying bodies that advocate for cultural preservation and community rights.

Preserving the Circassian language and culture is a central part of their identity. It is the principal means whereby social lives are conducted and expresses cultural reality. For Circassians, preserving their native language is considered the main task today, as it is the key to their ethnic identity. However, there are challenges, including assimilation and language loss, which have sparked movements for language revitalization in diaspora communities.

Despite these challenges, there has been a growing movement for the preservation and development of the Circassian language and traditional culture. Institutions such as Adyghe Khase have been founded to strengthen the Circassian identity within the diaspora. Efforts include devising alphabets, language courses, and the creation of cultural centers aimed at educating the younger generation about their heritage.

The Circassian diaspora abroad has begun experiencing a cultural reawakening, moving from a spirit of decline towards strength. There is an interest in studying their language and history. Even where full assimilation hasnt occurred, the challenge is gradual assimilation into host societies. Difficulties in saving the language have made it mandatory to depend on other elements of national survival, highlighting the uniqueness of the Circassian identity, which remains alive due to deep cultural roots and strong community solidarity.

Circassians continue to organize and engage in political struggles with the dream of living freely and humanely in their historical homeland. They demand international recognition of their historical grievances and current rights. This includes the restoration of their homeland and the acknowledgment of their cultural and political sovereignty.

There is a growing movement for the recognition of the Circassian Genocide and efforts to reconnect with their ancestral homeland. Repatriation has been a major issue. Circassians are dreaming of returning to their homeland one day. Their plans include the study and defense of Circassian history, and the preservation and multiplication of the Circassian language and identity.

The idea of "national belonging" allows Circassians to link the past to the present and produce future prospects. Circassian identity elements are affected by not residing in their homeland, with challenges like assimilation and language loss potentially making these factors less effective over time. However, national unity, based on common identity, ancient civilization, common history, and emotional solidarity, supports Circassian solidarity. The Circassian nation remains despite being torn apart, having managed to survive genocide.