Role of Regional Press in Representing Historical Culture of Cossacks: Bicentennial Celebration of Kuban Cossack Host in “Kuban Provincial News”

This study investigates the role of regional press in shaping the historical culture of the Cossacks, focusing on the coverage of the bicentennial celebration of the Kuban Cossack Host in the “Kuban Provincial News.” It examines the interplay between commemorative events and the editorial policies of 19thcentury publications, thereby enhancing our understanding of the mechanisms behind historical narrative formation and the popularization of specific stereotypes about Kuban Cossacks, as well as the role of official authorities in this process. The research draws from both official and private press sources at both metropolitan and local levels. Key methodologies employed include comparative-historical analysis, cultural-historical analysis, content analysis, and discourse analysis. Attention is given to the debate surrounding the dating of the formation of the Kuban Cossack Host, which is reflected in pre-revolutionary metropolitan and regional newspapers. The study demonstrates that the local newspaper “Kuban Provincial News” highlighted narrative, monumental, and ceremonial commemorative practices realized in the context of honoring the anniversary of the Kuban Cossack Host. The author concludes that publications from the pre-revolutionary press contributed to shaping public opinion about Kuban Cossacks as exemplary defenders of the monarchy and homeland, emphasizing their long history of service and loyalty to the state.