Independent Researcher
Doctor of History
Source Studies
International Relations, Geopolitics
Paris, France
grigolpheradze1@gmail.com
Abstract
My research examines the role of King Heraclius II of the Kingdom of Kartli-Kakheti in the development of the Armenian liberation movement during the second half of the 18th century. Notably, since the 1750s, amid shifts on the global stage, the kingdoms of Kartli and Kakheti began to strengthen their positions in the South Caucasus region under the reigns of Teimuraz II and Heraclius II. These Georgian monarchs fortified their borders and significantly curtailed Iranian influence during the early years of their rule. Subsequently, after the unification of Kartli and Kakheti under Heraclius II, Iran's domination over Eastern Georgia effectively ended, enabling him to extend his influence over neighboring Caucasian khanates. To some extent, the successes of Eastern Georgia in the second half of the 18th century served as a catalyst for the revival of the Armenian liberation movement. Its leaders - such as Joseph Emin, Movses Sarafov, Hovsep Arghutian, and Shahamir Shahamirian - emphasized the critical importance of King Heraclius II’s direct involvement in advancing their cause. Consequently, this research aims to analyze the role of King Heraclius II of Kartli-Kakheti in the Armenian liberation movement of this period. Furthermore, it seeks to chronologically examine the nature, objectives and broader circumstances of the relationships between the Armenian leaders and the Georgian monarch. This approach provides a framework for a comprehensive discussion of the subject within both regional and global contexts.
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