Colonization Practices Concerning Land Dispute Resolution at the Turn of the 17th−18th Centuries (Based on the Tara Area of the Irtysh Region Data)

Abstract

The article analyzes land dispute resolution practices that were used during the colonization of Siberia by the Russian state at the turn of the 17th–18th centuries in the Tara area of the Irtysh region. Studying the processes of exploration and absorption of Siberian territories requires careful attention to the specificity of the local history and population. Tatars, Siberian Bukharians, and Russians inhabited this region. Their relations were formed under conditions of competition for the same resources, mainly land. The article analyzes disputes occurring within the population of the Tara district: among service Russians; between Tatars (service and tribute-paying) and Russians; and among Tatars themselves. The most common cause of conflict was a desire to possess better lands, often belonging to indigenous inhabitants, which were necessary for organizing arable farming, animal husbandry, and other forms of economic and agricultural activity. During such disputes the local administration played the mediating role, it became an arbiter and took into account the presence of lawful claims of land ownership consulting earlier records and examining testimonies of witnessing old inhabitants. Recourse to the state for help, especially by the indigenous population, proves an increasing authority and legitimacy of the Russian power in the context of increasing colonization processes in Siberia. Examining numerous practices of land dispute resolution between inhabitants of the Tara area of the Irtysh region demonstrates an absence of severe antagonisms. The principal source for the present study is the 1701 Inventory Revision Book of the Tara area.