Diasporic Circassian National Identity: An Example of the Circassian Diaspora in Jordan

Natalia Agnieszka Hapek

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Diasporic Circassian National Identity: An Example of the Circassian Diaspora in Jordan

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Natalia Agnieszka Hapek

Natalia Agnieszka Hapek
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Type:: Chapter

Pages:: 153–162

DOI:: https://doi.org/10.1163/9781848881877_016

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This chapter draws on a research project conducted in Jordan to explore the role of the Circassian minority in that country as well as the construction of Circasianness and the diasporic consciousness of being Circassian. The chapter examines in particular the dawn of the Circassian national movement. It also presents some factors that have contributed to achieving a high social status of Circassians within the Jordanian society. After the Caucasian War, which ended in 1864, most of Circassians had to leave their homeland (nowadays 80-90 per cent of the population live in diaspora). They mostly managed to maintain a sense of distinctiveness, based on their culture and the common experience of forced migration although, in many cases, they did not avoid assimilation and the awareness of being Circassian became dormant. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Circassians obtained a chance of re-establishing relations with their homeland and the situation of the Circassian diaspora started to change. Now Circassians are witnessing a major change, which may be called an awakening. Globalisation and the new media, especially the Internet, play an important role in that process, which has helped to construct the new idea of a global Circassian diaspora. Also the organisation of the Olympic Games in Sochi (former Circassian land) in 2014 may be perceived as a catalyst. Nowadays Circassians are beginning to shape the way they perceive and present themselves. Among these endeavours revitalisation of Circassian language must be mentioned. Political actions are being undertaken within the diasporas. The problem of the lack of possibility of satisfactory return to the homeland has also been raised. This revival may be particularly observed in Jordan, as Circassians living there have always been one of the most, if not the most, active Circassian diaspora.

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Diasporic Choices

E-Book ISBN:: 9781848881877

Publisher:: Brill

Print Publication Date:: 01 Jan 2013

Subjects
- Social Sciences
  - Comparative Social Sciences
  - Cultural Studies

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Diasporic Circassian National Identity: An Example of the Circassian Diaspora in Jordan

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