RESISTANCE TO COLONIAL POLICY: THE 1916 TURKESTAN UPRISING BASED ON NEW RESEARCH

Abstract

This article approaches the 1916 popular movement in Turkestan from the perspective of modern historiography, reanalyzing its regional, political, and social significance. The author interprets this movement not merely as a spontaneous revolt, but as a historical expression of public dissatisfaction with colonial policies and an important stage of national awakening. While Soviet historiography viewed the event through the lens of class struggle, post-independence scholarship reconsiders it as a national liberation movement. The article explains the roots of the popular movement in factors such as social injustice, political oppression, and economic exploitation. It also analyzes the consequences of the uprising, including demographic losses, mass killings, deportations, displacement, and famine. Attention is given to some scholars' application of the term “genocide.” The article emphasizes the need to reassess historical events free from political and ideological influence, framing the movement as part of a broader effort to restore historical memory and national identity. Thus, the 1916 uprising is presented as a courageous struggle of the peoples of Turkestan in pursuit of freedom.