Colonial Policy of Russia and Samachablo

The political history of Samachablo (Didi Liakhvi Gorge) is closely related to the fight representatives Georgian Royal House and feudal aristocracy against Russian authorities that had become active since 1802. Although several members clan Machabeli lords were in service government, their overall attitude was sharply anti-Russian. Machabels took an position actions Russia’s colonial policy fought support Kartli-Kakheti House. rebellious princes tried form a united front Russians. In pursuit common goal Caucasians, they also relied on Ossetians, which loyal historical sources have retained lot information relations kings with Ossetians living North Caucasus, often side by Georgians during invasions foreign enemies. Emperor’s Court Russia exerted pressure small nations Caucasus region. could not escape aggression. German traveller Güldenstädt narrates Ossetian population's confrontation troops resulted casualties part Ossetians. from for Georgia occupied soon became evident. Vakhtang Batonishvili, who rebelled 1802, actively assisted Tagauri, because which, General Tuchkov imposed economic sanctions This meant prevented importing grains lowland. was, course, major blow mountains. 1804, Governor-General Tsitsianov block road Tagauri order prevent them connecting further Georgia. enemy peoples Caucasus. Therefore, Kingdom take mutual efforts Russia. placed special hopes allies.