V. V. Velyaminov-Zernov on Islam: Ryazan Local Lore Studies of the 19th Century

Abstract

The article analyzes the four-volume work of the orientalist of the XIX century V. V. Velyaminov-Zernov “Research on the Kasimov tsars and tsarevichs” (1863–1887), dedicated to the history of the Kasimov Khanate. The main attention is paid to the local history material about the city of Kasimov of the 17–19th centuries, including its Muslim district. The paper reveals novelty of the scientist’s approaches to history of Kasimov Tatar community. The first paragraph examines the conclusions of V. V. Velyaminov-Zernov regarding medieval fortresses located around Kasimov, the scientist concludes that these fortresses belonged to Tatar rulers during the period of the Kasimov Khanate. The second paragraph reveals the orientalist’s views on Orthodox-Muslim interaction in Kasimov in the 17–18th centuries. According to V. V. Velyaminov-Zernov, until the beginning of the 17th century there were two equivalent authorities in the city: the voivodeship court and the court of the Kasimov rulers. The article considers the history of Tatar heritage in Kasimov. The third paragraph is devoted to the 19th century. Velyaminov-Zernov’s research is useful for local historians dealing with the history of the Ryazan region.