1724 Ceremony of Proclaiming Tseren-Donduk as Viceroy of the Kalmyk Khanate

Abstract

Introduction. The article deals with an understudied episode in the history of the Kalmyk Khanate — 1724 ceremony of proclaiming Tseren-Donduk as Viceroy. Goals. The paper seeks to introduce a number of archival materials covering the period of Tseren-Donduk’s ruling years (1724–1735). Materials. The analyzed documents include ones housed by the National Archive of Kalmykia (Collection И-36). The Register of Kalmyk Affairs contains reports and accounts by Astrakhan Governor A. Volynsky collectively titled ‘About Controversies and Feuds between Kalmyk Landlords’. Results. Khan Ayuka’s death in 1724 gave rise to intense internal feuds among young heirs, and Russian authorities chose to introduce a new form of government in the Kalmyk Khanate — viceroyalty. Astrakhan Governor A. Volynsky believed his choice of Tseren-Donduk – a son of the late Khan – for the position of Viceroy would consolidate the Kalmyk community, and help get over the political crisis that had been lingering since 1723. And the decision did prove positive both to the Khanate and people. Recovery of the political system and consolidation of hereditary territories/populations (Kalm. ulus) were welcomed by the Government, despite the latter had initially tended to support Prince Dordzhi Nazarov in the position. Still, the appointment provoked somewhat hidden resistance of certain Kalmyk noblemen. In the meantime, Tseren-Donduk was viewed as a compromise candidate and accepted by most Kalmyk landlords. Conclusions. The Russian Government was seeking to consolidate political power among the Kalmyks – even in the hands of a temporary Viceroy appointee. The interaction between the parties during the editing of the Viceroy’s Oath of Allegiance uncovered two most essential problems in Russian-Kalmyk relations, namely: restrictions on external political contacts of Kalmyks, and the Nogai question.