Peer-reviewed journal "Humanities and law research"
The authors who publish with this journal agree to the following terms: Authors retain copyright and grant the journal right of first publication with the work simultaneously licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution License that allows others to share the work with an acknowledgement of the work's authorship and initial publication in this journal. Authors are able to enter into separate, additional contractual arrangements for the non-exclusive distribution of the journal's published version of the work (e.g., post it to an institutional repository or publish it in a book), with an acknowledgement of its initial publication in this journal. Authors are permitted and encouraged to post their work online (e.g., in institutional repositories or on their website) prior to and during the submission process, as it can lead to productive exchanges, as well as earlier and greater citation of published work (See The Effect of Open Access).
The role of Kizlyar in the border policy of Russia in the 18th century
Introduction. Fortifications were widely used In Russian border policy in the North Caucasus. Along with their military function, they began to acquire the significance of economic centers of influence on the peoples of the region. The history of the fortress city of Kizlyar is a clear example of the empire’s influence on socio-economic processes in the North Caucasus in the 18th century. Materials and methods. The article uses the principles of historicism and objectivity. The study is based on a set of primary sources, some of which are introduced into scientific circulation for the first time. Analysis. After the abolition of the Holy Cross fortress in 1735, Russian troops retreated to the Terek. They had to settle in the Kizlyar tract, which was already used by local residents as a trading platform, and now new prospects were opening up for it. The city was initially multi-ethnic, and the authorities emphasized the need to attract people from the North Caucasian peoples to settle there. The Kizlyar market made the local crafts profitable. Kizlyar turned out to be a transit point through which the flow of goods was redirected to Astrakhan. Accordingly, Russian goods were also brought to the North Caucasus through this city. Local entrepreneurs quickly built logistics, thanks to which cargoes connected with regular suppliers and consumers were sent in both directions. Kizlyar was not perceived by the mountain population as a threat or a source of danger. The economic interests of the most diverse parties of the interethnic dialogue being established in the borderland were concentrated there. Results. The military-political and economic development of the North Caucasus took place simultaneously. Border fortresses became centers of economic interaction between the subjects of the empire. The prospects for turning a fortress into a full-fledged city directly depended on the success in building mutually beneficial economic and cultural partnerships with local peoples. Kizlyar achieved the greatest success here, becoming a key point in Russia’s connections with the mountain and nomadic peoples of the region and with the markets of the East.
Restoration of the educational and material base of higher educational institutions of the Voroshilovgrad region in 1943–1945
Introduction. The article studies the process of restoring the educational and material base of universities in the Voroshilovgrad region at the final stage of the Great Patriotic War, identifying key problems and ways to overcome them. Modern scientific researches deprive the problem of due attention and lack the accuracy in the representation of events. Materials and methods. The source base consists of materials from five collections of the State Archive of the Luhansk People’s Republic, as well as materials from the archive of the Lugansk State Pedagogical University. The research is based on such fundamental principles of historical science as historicism and objectivity, which made it possible to identify the material problems of Voroshilovgrad region universities in specific historical conditions. Problem-chronological, comparative-historical and historical-genetic methods were used to study the research object. Analysis. The process of resuming the activities of universities in Voroshilovgrad region began after their reevacuation in 1943–1944 and took place in extreme conditions of devastation and ongoing hostilities. It is claimed that the recovery was slowed down due to a shortage of workers, construction materials and an uneven distribution of funds between institutions. It is emphasized that to overcome the difficulties, subsidiary farms were allocated among the universities of the region, the institutions were assigned to state farms and suburban farms, special canteens and workshops were opened on their basis, and apartments were provided for teachers. Results. It is concluded that the key role in the restoration of the educational and material base belonged to the teams of teachers and students, who, despite difficult living conditions, independently dismantled the rubble, adapted rooms for educational activities, restored classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and participated in propaganda work among the population. In parallel with work and educational activities, cultural and leisure activities have intensified as a tool of spiritual, moral, civic, patriotic, artistic and aesthetic education.
Periodization of the history of the theory of just war
Introduction. The theory of just war is an ethical, philosophical and legal doctrine that influences the formation of international humanitarian law and the foreign policy of Western countries. The relevance of the study is due to the revision of the doctrine that began at the turn of the 20th-21st centuries, used to justify humanitarian interventions and counter-terrorism operations, as well as the lack of study of the periodization issues of the theory in Russian academic discourse. The purpose of the work is to identify the main periods of development of a just war theory, their features and continuity. The scientific novelty lies in the generalization and comparison of existing variants of periodizations, the identification of the stages of the modern period of the development of the doctrine. Materials and methods. The source base of the study was the fundamental works of thinkers of various historical eras, as well as the work of modern Russian and foreign authors – adherents of both traditional and revision versions of the theory. Historical genetic, comparative and systemic methods were used in the work. Analysis. It is stated that there is no single academically recognized chronology of the development of doctrine. Approaches to structuring the history of the theory presented in the works of A. D. Kumankov, K. L. Sazonova, D. McMahan, S. Maffettone and others. It has been revealed that, with all the variety of terminology, researchers agree on the separation of the watershed between medieval Christian thought and the secular legalist paradigm of the New Age. Particular attention is paid to the specifics of the modern stage, characterized by the collision of Western interpretation with alternative views (Marxist tradition), as well as the revision of theory in the context of humanitarian interventions. Results. The author's interpretation of the modern period of the theory of just war is proposed. Two periods are distinguished: 1) the “Traditional,” including the theological (Christian) stage and the secular (legalist) stage; 2) “Modern,” divided into a stage of a bipolar world (coexistence with an alternative socialist concept) and a stage of a unipolar world (gaining an intellectual monopoly and developing a revisionist school).
Predicting the future in Ancient Greece: between the rational and the irrational (on some traits of Hellenic mentality)
Introduction. People of any era, including ancient times, have always had a desire to glimpse into the future. The most common way to obtain information was by consulting oracles, whose answers were considered trustworthy. On the other hand, the inquiries addressed to the gods allow us to understand the peculiarities of the Greek mentality. Materials and Methods. This topic is explored using a combination of narrative (the works of Herodotus, Xenophon, Plutachus, and Pausanias) and epigraphic sources (lead tablets from Dodona containing questions and requests addressed to the gods). The primary research method is comparative historical analysis and systems analysis, which allows for the comparison and systematization of information contained in the sources. Analysis. Uncertainty motivates people to seek knowledge they believe is necessary to make the right decision in a given situation. Developing this (presumed) knowledge, which may relate to the past, present, or future, requires external information. Data and interpretations of that data are essential for making sense of the world. For this, we can turn to experts such as psychologists, journalists, or economists. Their external information allows us to consider the situation we find ourselves in. This facilitates decision-making: external information reduces uncertainty because we believe we are guided by reliable information. In the ancient world, especially in ancient Greece, an important part of this external information was divination: the recognition and interpretation of signs believed to originate from the supernatural. The results of divination inspired the sense of confidence, facilitating the decisions we had to make in everyday life. Results. Thus, any Greek, from king to slave, was a potential client of divination services. Public (official) and private (informal) divination, with or without an expert, was very common. In case of an expert, people either consulted a local expert or traveled long distances to satisfy their need for expert knowledge.
Geography of the activities of visiting student construction brigades of the Krasnodar krai and the Stavropol krai (1965 – 1980s)
Introduction. The study examines the main areas of deployment of student construction brigades formed in educational institutions of the Krasnodar Krai and the Stavropol Krai in the period from 1965 to the end of the 1980s. The novelty lies in the fact that at present there are no works in historiography examining this aspect of the activities of construction brigades in the regions under study. Materials and methods. The main source of the study is the reports on the activities of the regional SСB headquarters, which are in the Center for Documentation of Contemporary History of the Krasnodar Krai, the State Archive of Contemporary History of the Stavropol Krai and the Russian State Archive of Socio-Political History. For a more detailed disclosure of the topic, periodicals and memoirs of former participants in mobile student construction brigades are also used. The main research method is historical and comparative. It was used to identify similarities and differences in the development of mobile SCB in the Krasnodar and Stavropol Krai. The historical and genetic method was also used to analyze the development of the movement in a chronological relationship, etc. Analysis. The work examines how the areas of deployment of student construction brigades formed in educational institutions of the Krasnodar and Stavropol regions changed. The number of brigades working in different republics, territories and regions of the USSR is compared. The share of mobile brigades from the total number of the movement in the studied regions is determined. Results. The main direction of deployment of student construction brigades of the Krasnodar Krai from 1965 to 1974 was the Kazakh SSR. From 1975 until the cessation of the movement, from 80% to 90% of mobile SСB worked in the Kalinin region. Other regions played a less significant role. At the same time, for the construction brigades of Stavropol, throughout their history, the main direction of deployment was the Kazakh SSR. From 60% to 80% of the total number of mobile SСB worked in the republic annually. Mobile construction brigades of both regions also worked abroad as part of exchange groups.
The role of religion in the formation of American national identity (XVII – early XX century)
Introduction. In the XXI century, the concept of national identity has acquired increasing significance due to intensifying globalization processes. The issue of the influence of religion − as the spiritual and ideological foundation of society − on the formation of national identity is particularly ambiguous in the United States, as the country is originally characterized by confessional pluralism. Materials and methods. The article attempts to determine the role of religion in shaping American national identity from the XVII to the early XX century. The study relies on sources such as sermons, religious writings, journalistic materials, and periodical press. A special group of sources comprises works of XIX century historical fiction, which are examined as instruments for shaping mass perception and doctrinal justification of the national idea. Analysis. Throughout its history, the United States has hosted a wide variety of religious doctrines. There was no dominant religious doctrine, and most religious organizations were marked by tolerance and operated on a voluntary basis. Gradually, the control of churches over the spiritual and moral state of society weakened. In the XVIII and XIX centuries, several waves of the Great revival swept across North America, emerging as a consequence of spiritual searches within American society. Simultaneously, through the process of myth-making centered on the events of the American Revolution − the first major nationwide victory − American values, ideals, and the national idea underwent sacralization in the collective consciousness. Results. Based on the findings of this study, we can conclude that in the United States, national identity was shaped not by a dominant religious doctrine but by numerous religious beliefs. By aligning with the American national value system, these beliefs provided it with spiritual and ideological justification, ultimately leading to the emergence of civil religion in the United States.
Liberation and labor: Circassian women during collectivization (1930s-1940s)
Introduction. The 1930s were a turning point in the history of the Soviet Union: there was a restructuring of the country’s governing bodies, the formation of a modern economic system, and a powerful industrial and defense potential. Modernization also affected the women’s issue. A significant contribution to the process of emancipation of the North Caucasian women was made by the activities of the Departments for work with workers and peasant women (women’s departments). From the very foundation in 1919 until their liquidation, the departments dealt with issues of domestic, political and educational emancipation of the North Caucasian women. The activity was effective and thanks to the measures systematically undertaken during this period, in 1937, Kabardian, Balkarian, Circassian and activists from other North Caucasus regions were elected to the Council of Nationalities of the RSFSR for the first time. The liquidation of Zhenotdels (Women’s Departments) in 1930 is often interpreted as the definitive resolution of the “woman question” in the Soviet Union. However, this study argues that the measure represented not a cessation, but rather a reorganization of work with women. The functions of the Zhenotdel were transferred to the Women’s Sector within the Agitation and Propaganda Department of the Central Committee of the All-Union Communist Party (Bolsheviks), indicating an integration of work with the female population into the party’s overall strategy. The organization of work with women from Caucasus regions (particularly, in this study, with Circassian women) after the liquidation of the Zhenotdels, and the opportunities for self-realization offered to women during this period, are of particular interest of the research. Materials and Methods. The research methodology combines the principles of historicism, objectivity, and systemic analysis. The source base includes normative legal acts, scientifical works on Caucasian studies, archival documents (from the state archives of the Rostov Region, Adygea, Kabardino-Balkaria, and KarachayCherkessia), and materials from the periodical press, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the study of the topic. Analysis. Based on a comprehensive analysis of documentary sources, it is concluded that the reorganization of the system of work with the female population in the 1930s did not lead to a reduction in the level of women’s social activity. The integration of the “woman question” into the general party agenda was combined with an expansion of women’s, including Circassian women’s, access to education at various levels and active involvement in productive activities, which contributed to the formation of a new generation of managerial personnel, including those represented in government bodies. Results. Analysis of archival sources and normative legal acts demonstrates changes in the lives of Circassian women in Adygea, KabardinoBalkaria, and Karachay-Cherkessia after the abolition of the Zhenotdels. Increased education levels, participation in production, involvement in political activities (up to and including election to the Council of Nationalities), testify to the expansion of opportunities for social mobility and participation in the governance of the state.
Economy and household life of Alanya in the V – XIII centuries. Cattle breeding
Introduction. The article examines livestock breeding as the most important sector of the economy of medieval Alania. Starting from the 5th century, there was a gradual revival of the political, economic, and cultural spheres of life of the people, which followed the invasion of the Huns. The development of Alania continued until the 13th century when the country fell under the blows of the Mongol conquerors. The Alans and their culture played a significant role in the historical destiny of Southern Eastern Europe in the early centuries of our era and in the pre-Caucasus during the medieval period. The problem of the Alans in historical science has existed since the late 16th century and continues to attract the attention of domestic and foreign researchers. The works on the Alans primarily cover issues of ethnogenesis, linguistic affiliation, political history of the settlement of tribal groups, description and chronological classification of household and burial monuments, highlighting local variants of Alanian culture, international relations, reading some written monuments, the issue of continuity of subsequent ethnocultures related to the Alans, questions of religion (paganism, Christianity), the problem of the Nart epic, and others. However, little is known about the internal history of the Alans. The literature poorly reflects the productive forces, economy, level of material culture, and daily life, and without knowledge of the peculiarities of the economic activity of a particular people, there remains a gap that complicates the possibility of deeply understanding various aspects of its historical life. Materials and Methods. The methods of comparative linguistics, with the involvement of the Ossetian language – one of the ancient living languages belonging to the Iranian language group, which was spoken by the Alans, provide a convincing reconstruction of some aspects of household life. Important significance is attributed to the findings obtained during the excavations of archaeological sites on the territory of medieval Alania. The circle of sources also includes Nart tales in the Ossetian version. Much valuable information for the topic under consideration is also provided by ethnography. Analysis. Literary accounts of ancient and medieval authors, material evidence from burial mounds and settlements, data from comparative linguistics, and folklore indicate that livestock breeding was one of the most important occupations forming the economic foundation of medieval Alania society. Results. Livestock breeding occupied a leading place in the economy, primarily in the mountains, being the main prerequisite for a very dense settlement of the mountains in the medieval period
The evolution of the western view on Russian orientalism in the North Caucasus: the key features
Introduction. The problems of the processes of Russian Orientalism formation in the North Caucasus in the XIX century is an urgent topic for modern historical science. The main reason confirming its critical relevance is the insufficient research of the contribution of Russian public, political and military figures to the study of the region. The issue of the special role of Russian orientalism, which saw a unique region in the North Caucasus and demanded respect for itself, in achieving the task of successful integration of the region into Russia, has not yet found sufficient coverage in Russian science. A detailed analysis of the experiences of Russian orientalism in the North Caucasus, in addition to the theoretical one, contains significant political and ideological significance, since attempts to critically assess Russian policy in the Caucasus in the context of anticolonial discourse are gaining popularity in Western academic circles. Materials and methods. The research is based on the analysis of texts by domestic and foreign historians. The main focus was on the research of Western authors who examined Russian policy in the North Caucasus. Retrospective, historicalgenetic and historical-comparative methods were used as methods of historical and political research. The author analyzes the evolution of Western views on the experiences of Russian Orientalism in the North Caucasus from the middle of the XIX century to the present day. Analysis. As part of the study of Western literature, the author concludes that in the 19th century, the Western perception of Russian orientalism in the North Caucasus was biased. Reflection of Russian politics in the region was covered by Western figures mainly in a negative way, which was caused by the negative attitude of the West towards Russia and the need to confront a geopolitical competitor. Results. Russian Orientalism in the North Caucasus is dominated by a different approach in the modern Western perception, based on the study of Russia’s contribution from the standpoint of the practical progress of the region and its integration into the global cultural context through the work of Russian writers and artists.
M. D. Skobelev in Сentral Asian campaigns in the second half of the 19th century
Introduction. The historical memory of our people is based on the glorious military traditions and military exploits of Russian soldiers in defending the interests and frontiers of the Fatherland. Analyzing the state, military structure and traditions of the army of the Russian Empire of the second half of the 19th century, the author focuses on the role and significance of the Central Asian campaigns in the formation and development of the military talent of Mikhail Dmitrievich Skobelev. Materials and methods. The historical research is based on the analysis of various published sources, memoirs of participants and contemporaries, events described, publications by contemporary authors, as well as archival materials. During the research, the author applied the following methods: objectivity, historicism, narrative-descriptive, system analysis, which made it possible to analyze the military service and combat activities of M. D. Skobelev in Central Asia. Analysis. The author explores the military path of M. D. Skobelev, who devoted his whole life to serving the Fatherland and protecting the borders of the Russian Empire. Starting his service in Central Asia, the young lieutenant Colonel of the General Staff proved himself to be a talented and enterprising officer, gaining the necessary experience of combat command in the Khiva campaign of 1873. During the Kokand expedition of 1875-1876 and the Kashgar mission of 1875, which evacuated the Russian embassy and the deposed Khudoyar Khan outside the Kokand Khanate, M. D. Skobelev showed not only brilliant commanding abilities, but also the capabilities of a skilled diplomat. The apogee of General Skobelev’s generalship talent was the II Akhal-Teke campaign of 1880-1881, where he acted as the commander of the entire expeditionary force, a skilled military leader capable of making the only right decision in extreme conditions of mountainous and desert terrain and mobilizing his subordinates to successfully complete any combat mission. Results. Based on the results of the conducted historical research, it is necessary to conclude that M. D. Skobelev for 39 years of his life, made a spectacular military career. Over 21 years of military service, he went through the military path from a cadet to a general from the infantry, and was never a parquet general, but earned his ranks and posts in combat battles, proving himself to be a competent, disciplined, brave and enterprising officer, loyal to his oath and duty. Throughout his service, he commanded various military units, both regular and irregular, always understanding the specifics of the organization of combat activities. M. Skobelev was distinguished not only by his daily demands on subordinates, but also by his care for them, and his ability to defend the interests of any lower rank before his superiors.
Libanius, βουλευταί and πολιτευόμενοι in the social network of a late antique city
Introduction. The process of Byzantinization of the late antique cities of the Eastern Mediterranean begins in the 4th century and lasts until the end of the 6th century. The focus of social changes is on the position of the curials. In Greek, curials can be rendered by two terms – βουλευταί and πολιτευόμενοι. Most scholars now identify these two terms after some period of searching for differences between them in historiography. The question of the state of the Antiochene curia in the era of Libanius (the second half of the 4th century) and the relationship of the rhetorician with the curials provides opportunities for a wide research search. Materials and methods. The main source is the legacy of the Antiochene rhetorician of the second half of the 4th century Libanius. Some other synchronous sources are also used. The research methods are the method of content analysis (as an analysis of the content of sources), comparative historical and general scientific methods of analysis and synthesis. Analysis. The era of Libanius and the case of Antioch are of particular interest, since Libanius is one of the most prolific authors of his era, from whom a colossal written legacy has been preserved. Antioch is one of the three largest cities of the empire, the metropolis of the East; finally, the era under consideration is of decisive importance in terms of the Byzantinization of the late antique city in the Eastern Mediterranean, when the traditional municipal system is in decline. The curial citizens are no longer so much striving for positions in the city community as they are burdened by duties, and a new external nobility, connected with the state and the administrative system, penetrates the city. In the letters and speeches of this rhetorician, 133 curials are distinguished, of which 57 were connected only with Antioch, and the rest – with other cities. However, Libanius’ interest in municipal life, as well as the scale of his activity, are exceptional even for his time and have no analogues in the following centuries. The correspondence of Libanius allows us to learn about 196 students of this rhetorician, students of his school in Antioch. In addition to their studies, 22 curials are known to have turned to Libanius for a letter of recommendation in order to obtain immunity from municipal duties. This reflects the state of affairs in the curia of Antioch. Results. The life and writings of Libanius allow us to clarify the position of the curials in Antioch and throughout the East of the empire in the final, critical, but still living period of their existence. The circle of Libanius’ correspondents from the curials is associated with two main topics - this is the educational process in his school and the problem of freeing the curials from their onerous duties in the city in favor of an administrative career in the empire. Libanius generally considers the curials to be the basis of traditional city-state life, but clearly sees their crisis state and the strengthening of the administrative segment of society and, in general, the strengthening of statism.
Portrait of an Italian condottiere: the incidents of Muzio Attendolo-Sforza’s life
Introduction. The article explores the life of the condottiere Muzio Attendolo-Sforza (1369-1424), a mercenary commander who not only achieved fame as a successful military leader but also expanded his family property. He was not successful in his political career, yet he paved the way for the victories and conquests of his son, Francesco Sforza (1401-1466), who was able to significantly expand the family property, the apotheosis of his political activity being the capture of the Duchy of Milan. Materials and Methods. The study is based on the principles of historicism and analyzes a historical source – the biography Vite Degli Sforzeschi (Lives of the Sforza Family) written by Paolo Giovio in the 16th century. Despite its somewhat exaggerated image of the condottiere, the work contains valuable and unique information. A chronological approach is also used to assess Muzio AttendoloSforza’s influence on his descendants and the military and political landscape in Italy in the late 14th and early 15th centuries. Regarding the research, the work of an English historian from the second half of the 20th century deserves special mention. Michael Mallett’s book, dedicated to the phenomenon of Italian mercenarism, presents material on prominent condottieri and military leaders of northern and central Italy. Analysis. The expansion of the Attendolo-Sforza family’s influence began with the condottiere Muzio Attendolo-Sforza, who became a mercenary at a relatively early age and achieved significant success in his military career. He accepted contracts from leading Italian rulers, significantly expanding his family's landholdings across the Italian Peninsula. He attempted to establish himself as a political figure in the Kingdom of Naples, but lacking experience in intrigue, he was arrested. Relying on his military corps, he was able to free himself, though he left his children hostage. His son, Francesco Sforza, used his political ambitions and the experience he gained from his father to seize the Duchy of Milan, which would come under the control of the Sforza dynasty for several centuries. Results. It can be concluded that Muzio Attendolo-Sforza, as the commander of a condottieri detachment, largely realized his potential as a military leader and received a number of territories in central and partly southern Italy for his military service. Muzio did not become a successful political figure, remaining in the memory of generations primarily as a condottiero. However, he provided valuable advice and education to his son, Francesco Sforza, who was able to strengthen the influence of the Attendolo-Sforza family by capturing the Duchy of Milan.
Episodes of child captives’ trade in the Northwest Caucasus in the second third of the 19th century
Introduction. Raids with the purpose of kidnapping people in the Northwest Caucasus were a serious problem for Russia, which completely took over the region after the RussianOttoman War of 1828 – 1829. This paper analyzes individual life situations related to the captivity of children on the southern border of the empire. Materials and methods. The study is based on the analysis of documents and materials from the funds of the State Archives of Krasnodar Krai. Published archival materials and memoirs were used in the work. Based on the analysis of various types of sources containing information on the peculiarities of the capture of children in the Northwest Caucasus in the second third of the 19th century, specific features of the phenomenon of captivity sale are revealed. Analysis. The analysis of the materials showed that the capture of childen was mainly commercial in nature. They were used as slaves on the farm, could be resold or returned to relatives for ransom. Results. It can be concluded that child abductions were carried out mainly at sunset or in cloudy weather. This made it easier to escape pursuit. Not only representatives of the unpeaceful mountain communities, but also fugitive Cossacks were involved in the capture of slaves. Both representatives of the East Slavic population and native ethnic groups were captured. Many slaves fled to Russian fortifications, wishing to gain freedom. The sale of captives caused a sharp emotional rejection among Russian subjects of various social and ethnic origins.
130 years of serving the national transport industry: the history of the Russian university of transport as reflected in the institute press
Introduction. The purpose of the article is to reconstruct, using archival sources and periodicals, the stages of the formation and development of the Russian University of Transport (MIIT), from the Imperial Moscow Engineering School to the country’s leading national transport university. It also examines the role and place of the university in the training system of transport industry and its contribution to the development of transport science, engineering, and production. Materials and Methods. To achieve this goal, a historical-systematic approach was used to examine the topics of publications in the institute newspaper, Engineer of Transport, and their changes over different periods of the national socio-political life. Content analysis was employed to process a significant volume of periodicals, specifically publications in the institute newspaper, Engineer of Transport, from 1924 to 1996. Attention was paid to thematic analysis of articles, the authors’ understanding and interpretation of the text, and photographic materials. The study of the institute newspaper, Transport Engineer, identified the key themes (units of analysis) reflecting the academic, scientific, and socio-political activities of MIIT during the period under review. This article is based on the principles of historicism, objectivity, and comprehensiveness, the consistent application of which allowed us to examine the university history within its specific historical context. Much of the material from the institute newspaper, Transport Engineer, reflecting the life of leading national transport university, is being introduced into scholarly circulation for the first time. Analysis. The article, using materials from the institute newspaper, Transport Engineer, and archival materials, examines the stages of the formation and development of the Russian University of Transport (MIIT), analyzing its transformation into a systemically important university in the transport industry and a major transport research center. Results. The results of the study suggest that the development of the educational institution from an engineering school to the leading educational institution in the industry met the socioeconomic, political, and technological challenges facing national transport industry. With a production focus on training highly qualified engineering personnel for the transportation sector, the institute became its pillar. University researchers and graduates participated in the design and construction of key railways in the country: the Trans-Siberian Railway, the Baikal-Amur Mainline, and others. Today, RUT (MIIT) is participating in the design of the first national high-speed railway (HSR), the Moscow-St. Petersburg line, and serves as a research base for the country's transportation system, training personnel for all modes of public transport.
The British occupation of Egypt in 1882: a deliberate action or the result of a series of random events?
Introduction. The era of colonialism, which peaked in the 19th century, began to fade only about a century ago, and many states that had previously been under the rule of the metropolises gained independence only after the Second World War. In this regard, the phenomenon of colonialism continues to arouse genuine interest among researchers, because not all the manifestations and consequences of colonial policy have been fully studied. This work is devoted to the issue of the British occupation of Egypt in 1882 and its motives. Materials and Methods. The study is based on the analysis of the points of view of modern Russian historians in relation to the nature of the British occupation of Egypt in 1882, among which special attention is paid to the positions of E.V. Morozov, A.A. Ayvazyan and M.S. Buryan. It is noted that the opinions of these historians regarding the British approach to the idea of the occupation of Egypt vary. The study provides the arguments on which the points of view of these authors are based. When forming the author’s position on the issue under consideration, the texts of British historians were used, as well as some documents that make it possible to trace the sentiments prevailing in the British government during this period. Analysis. The paper provides a brief description of the Turkish-Egyptian wars of 1831-1833 and 1839-1841 in the context of the beginning of the Anglo-French confrontation in Egypt. The reasons for the increased interest in Egypt on the part of the great powers in the 19th century are substantiated. The internal and external situation of Egypt in the 1870s and early 1880s is considered. The uprising of Orabi Pasha is characterized as one of the catalysts of the British occupation of the region in 1882. The statements of British statesmen regarding the occupation of Egypt are analyzed, as well as the actions of the British administration in the region after the British troops entered Egypt. Results. Based on the results of the study, it was concluded that the British occupation of Egypt in 1882 became a natural result of London’s purposeful desire to strengthen its presence in Egypt in the second half of the 19th century, which is confirmed both by the statements of British statesmen of this period and by the fact that British troops finally left Egypt and the Suez Canal only in 1956.
Insignificance in criminal law: theoretical and practical aspects
Introduction. The article studies an urgent topic – assessing an act for its public danger in accordance with the norms of the criminal law, and, accordingly, defining it as insignificant according to a number of criteria. Law enforcement and judicial practice has recently faced the fact that acts that formally fall under the signs of a crime are regarded as insignificant, which entails the termination of criminal cases or the refusal to initiate them. Consequently, it is necessary to develop scientifically based criteria for determining insignificance in criminal law and consolidate them in the criminal law and at the level of explanations of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation. Materials and methods. To fulfill the tasks set by the authors, an arsenal of scientific methods was used: dialectical, analysis and synthesis, induction and deduction, systemic, formal-legal, historical, relatively legal, logical. Analysis. The article studies the current legislation of the Russian Federation in the area under consideration, including the transformation of the criminal law for a significant historical period, the explanations of the Plenum of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation on the application of this provision of the criminal law and judicial practice, the scientific works of Russian legal scholars on this topic, and the criminal legislation of foreign countries . Results. The authors consider the problems of insignificance in criminal law and scientifically justify the need to develop and formally consolidate the criteria for classifying acts as insignificant, which will make it possible in law enforcement practice to distinguish them from crimes. The study updates the existing scientific knowledge on the topic under consideration, has a scientific novelty in terms of the criteria proposed by the authors. The authors also propose a revision of the criminal law, and some suggestions to the Plenum of the RF Armed Forces on a more detailed presentation of its application.
Highly automated civilian vehicles: classification issues
Introduction. In the context of the rapid development of digital technologies and intelligent transportation systems, the legal regulation of highly automated vehicles (HAVs) is becoming strategically significant. The article examines theoretical and legal approaches to the classification of highly automated vehicles (HAVs). Materials and Methods. The study is based on the analysis of Russian legislation, program and strategic documents, as well as international standards and recommendations in the field of highly automated transport. Works by Russian administrative scholars and legal theorists, focusing on classification issues and a systematic approach, were used as the theoretical foundation. The methodological basis of the study includes formal-legal, comparative-legal, and systemic methods, which allow identifying the relationship between the technical characteristics of HAVs and their legal status. Analysis. The article identifies and scientifically substantiates the key criteria for classifying HAVs, including the level of automation, area of application, operating environment, and nature of interaction with road infrastructure and other road users. An original four-level classification model is proposed, taking into account both the technical parameters of HAV operation and their regulatory and legal significance. It is shown that the lack of a legally stable classification complicates issues of certification, permission to participate in road traffic, allocation of legal responsibility, as well as the integration of HAVs into digital traffic management platforms. Results. Based on the analysis conducted, it is concluded that there is a need to legally establish the classification of highly automated vehicles in Russian legislation in order to ensure legal certainty, systematization, and coherence in cross-sectoral regulation.
Expertise as a method of proof in administrative proceedings on environmental violations in specially protected areas
Introduction. Administrative proceedings frequently raise issues requiring resolution using specialized knowledge. Offenses committed in specially protected areas (SPAs) and their buffer zones are no exception. For these purposes, authorized bodies conducting administrative investigations and courts hearing administrative offense cases commission expert examinations, including environmental ones. Pre-trial and forensic examinations are conducted by state and non-state expert institutions and organizations. Materials and Methods. The author uses both general scientific methods of inquiry, such as analysis, synthesis, induction, and deduction, and specialized legal methods: legal, technical, and other relevant research methods. Analysis. Expert examination in administrative proceedings is an activity aimed at resolving issues related to circumstances subject to proof, based on the specialized knowledge possessed by experts. The fundamental federal law regulating forensic examination is Federal Law No. 73-FZ of May 31 On State Forensic Activity in the Russian Federation. The Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation and the Code of Administrative Procedure of the Russian Federation serve as the sources of the institution. One of the types of pre-trial and forensic examinations in most expert institutions is environmental and related examinations. Results. Despite the existence of a legal framework and the abundance of expert institutions and organizations, a number of problems currently exist within this institution.
On the problem of semantic nonadditivity of motivated lexemes in the Russian language
Introduction. The article examines the features of the semantics and pragmatics of lexemes with the metaphorical quantitative meaning “indefinite large number”, which occurs in colloquial speech in the process of nominating a large (more than the norm, measure) number of things, objects, and artifacts. Materials and methods. The material consisted of dictionary entries of lexemes arsenal, pile, bulk, pile, blockage, pile, box, pile, row, fountain, stack and fragments of colloquial speech, including these words in a figurative sense. Using general scientific methods, as well as linguistic ones, primarily the method of component analysis, the definitions of dictionary entries of these lexemes were analyzed, the features of their semantics, pragmatics and their lexical compatibility in everyday communication were considered. Analysis. In the course of the work, the metaphorical quantitative meaning of the studied words was characterized, the dynamics of its formation during the XX-XXI centuries was shown based on the definitions of explanatory dictionaries and colloquial texts. The peculiarities of the semantic structure of each lexeme in the named meaning are revealed during the analysis of its lexical compatibility and in comparison with the lexical compatibility of the nominations included in the studied group. Results. The use of the named names of things, objects, and artifacts in everyday speech as metaphorical quantitative nominations with the meaning of “indefinite large number” is specific to each lexeme and is determined by its specific lexical compatibility. The degree of loss of nominative meaning in the studied lexemes is different, which is related to the possibility or impossibility of their interchangeability in similar contexts.
Linguistic and axiological interpretation of the family in the system of ethnocultural and general cultural values
Introduction. The article offers linguo-axiological interpretation of family in the context of the cultural values paradigm. The study aims to characterize the family axiosphere through the prism of ethno- and general cultural values and to clarify the specifics of semiotic encoding of family values in the modern media space. A set of research tasks are solved: (1) clarifying the concept of value as such; (2) the relationship between value and the related concepts of linguocognition; (3) determining the system and specifics of interaction between ethno- and general cultural values; (4) identifying the value potential of the family in correlation with ethno- and general cultural values; (5) clarifying the features of semiotic encoding of family values in the media space. Materials and Methods. The theoretical sources on ethnocultural and general cultural values and their linguo-semiotic representation served the material for the study. The empirical material comprised 120 Russianlanguage polycode texts containing references to family and family values in verbal and / or visual semiotic codes. The research methodology relies on general scientific theoretical and specific scientific methods, including content analysis and axiological interpretation of the text corpus. Semio-linguistic analysis was used to interpret the interaction of semiotic codes in the process of encoding cultural values. Analysis. The category of values has ontological status and is directly linked to the category of evaluation as the process and result of reinforcing subjective perception and evaluative attitudes toward the subject of discourse. Family is a social value and is interconnected with other categories: vital, moral, religious, and other values. In contemporary media discourse, the image of family and family values has been studied primarily through verbal material; however, the trend toward increased visualization of culture actualizes reflection on the semiotically convergent encoding of family values. In polycode texts, reference to family values is presented in visual and verbal codes. These texts can be divided into three categories: (1) explicit or implicit social advertising posted on the websites of government agencies and organizations whose activities are related to family issues; (2) journalistic materials; (3) everyday discursive reflection (comments, memes, etc.). In the category of social advertising, the visual component contains photographic images conveying images of a happy family: parents and children posing for the camera or presented in various life situations. The verbal code reveals the peculiarities of interaction between family members and the pragmatics of the message. Media materials and user-generated content are characterized by a broader axiological palette of interpretation of family values, which relies on expressive means and stylistic devices, as well as a diverse visual series: photographs, collages, graphic drawings and various paragraphemic symbols, such as emoji. Results. The conducted semiotic analysis allows us to conclude that there is high potential for the semiotically variable encoding of family values in media texts.
Linguopragmatic characteristics of polemical statements (based on the analysis of German-language newspaper articles on energy issues)
Introduction. The paper is dedicated to the linguopragmatic analysis of polemical statements in Germanlanguage media texts on energy issuesThe article studies communicative and pragmatic features of polemical statements. The emphasis is made on functional features of explicit and implicit polemical statements actualizing different degrees of polemics and evaluation. Materials and methods. The research material includes Germanlanguage articles from German, Austrian and Swiss periodicals published in 2023-2025 and deals with topical energy issues. Within the framework of the anthropocentric paradigm of linguistic knowledge, we used discourse analysis, linguopragmatic and contextual analysis techniques, which allowed us to identify and classify the means and strategies of textual implementation of polemics. Special attention was given to the analysis of linguistic means of actualization of polemical potential of statements and their pragmatic functions. Analysis. The study demonstrates that polemical statements in media texts are actualized both explicitly through direct verbalisation of the author’s intention (open support or criticism of reforms in the energy sector, positive or negative assessment of achievements) and implicitly through the use of means of indirect evaluation and criticism that fulfill the hidden pragmatic purposes of soft persuasion and manipulation. The conducted analysis has shown that polemical discourse in the studied German-language media texts is public and predominantly economic in nature. It has a regulated character, obeying the specific rules of media discourse, and the authors actively broadcast positive and negative attitudes to the object of polemics. Results. In the process of research, it was established that journalistic polemical texts are the result of multifaceted speech and verbal-cognitive critical activity aimed at fulfilling both informative and evaluative functions in order to form a certain position of the recipient.
Okonovа LV. Nomadic civilization of the Kalmyks in the 17th – early 20th centuries: monograph: in 5 parts. Elista: Publishing house of Kalm. University, 2025. – Part 4. Historical demography of Russian nomadic Kalmyks in the last third of the 18th – 19th centuries. 279 p.