Historiography of mobilization in the Russian Empire: main approaches and trends 

Ilia N. Zhigulin, Postgraduate student, Orenburg State Pedagogical University (19 Sovetskaya street, Orenburg, Russia), Ilia.jigulin@yandex.ru

Background. Issues of mobilization preparation and mobilization are always relevant, since the Russian population was systematically exposed to external threats, and to repel these threats, it was necessary to have an organized army. The purpose of the study is to analyze the historiography of mobilization in the Russian Empire and identify its main approaches and trends. Materials and methods. The works of such authors as D.F. Maslovsky, A.K. Bayov, A.L. Sidorov, E.Z. Barsukov, A.M. Anfimov, O.R. Airapetov, L.I. Borodkin and E.Yu. Sergeev are analyzed. The methodological framework encompasses fundamental principles of scientific research, such as historicism and objectivity. Hermeneutics is used as a method for interpreting text, and historical-situational analysis allows for the evaluation of events and phenomena based on a specific historical context. This, to a certain extent, frees the researcher from the influence of established scientific ideas and methodological clichés. Results. This article analyzes the reflection of the issue of mobilization in the Russian Empire in Russian historiography. The main stages of historiography’s development, from the prerevolutionary period to the modern era, are examined. Conclusions. The literature review is presented in a historical perspective. Specific features of scientific interpretations at various time periods are identified.

historiography, mobilization, military mobilization, public policy

Zhigulin I.N. Historiography of mobilization in the Russian Empire: main approaches and trends. Izvestiya vysshikh uchebnykh zavedeniy. Povolzhskiy region. Gumanitarnye nauki = University proceedings. Volga region. Humanities. 2025;(3):39–48. (In Russ.). doi: 10.21685/2072-3024-2025-3-4