Ethnocultural Meanings of Patriotism and Historical Memory among the Peoples of Chukotka

This study analyses the ethnocultural specifics of understandings of patriotism, the concepts of "homeland" and "hero" among the indigenous peoples of Chukotka, and the historical memory of the Great Patriotic War in the context of modern geopolitical challenges, including the special military operation. The relevance of this study stems from the need to study the consolidating role of patriotism in a multiethnic region. The research methodology combines quantitative and qualitative methods. The theoretical framework integrates the ethnographic method, memory studies and oral history approaches, focusing on "history from below." Chukotka residents' perception of their homeland is closely linked to their place of birth, family, and nature. Patriotism is interpreted through the prism of traditional values, such as land protection, family ties, and a willingness to self-sacrifice. Thus, in the Chukchi tradition, patriotism can be understood through concepts of blood solidarity. The historical memory of the Great Patriotic War reveals the contribution of the indigenous peoples of Chukotka to the victory (volunteers at the front; construction of airfields on the AlSib highway in Markovo and Uelkal; rear support – supplies of furs, reindeer meat, fish products, marine mammals, fur clothing, fundraising, purchase of bonds, unpaid labour). The article analyses possible reasons for the apparent imbalance in participation in the special military operation between the indigenous peoples of Chukotka and the non-indigenous population ("newcomers"). Indigenous peoples view modern participation in the special military operation as a continuation of the tradition of commemorating the Great Patriotic War and it is associated with voluntary choice, social needs, and a warrior-hunter mentality, expressed in a habit of risk-taking and fatalism. The study revealed that the patriotism of the peoples of Chukotka is deeply rooted and based on a synthesis of ethnic traditions of defending "their land," the Soviet legacy of the Great Patriotic War and contemporary civic solidarity. 86.2% of respondents identify themselves as patriots of Russia. Patriotism is manifested through the continuity of heroism (the Great Patriotic War is a special military operation), solidarity in the face of external threats, and a deep connection to the territory.