Why is Sakartvelo Called Georgia?
Often, the names of countries and regions carry rich histories and cultural backgrounds. In the case of Sakartvelo, a name that was once used to refer to a more localized collective entity in Georgia, the story of why it became associated with Georgia is fascinating. Let's explore the history and evolution of this intriguing name.
The Historical Context of Sakartvelo
Sakartvelo, in Georgian, means 'the land of Kartvelians', a term used to refer to the inhabitants of Georgia. However, before 1918, Sakartvelo was not a country name, but rather a collective name for territories where the Kartvelians lived. It was used in poetry and as a nostalgic expression by Georgians who lived abroad. This name was never officially used as a country name, and no maps of Sakartvelo existed prior to 1918.
Geographical and Political Evolution
The name Sakartvelo first appeared on maps in the early 20th century during a period of political turmoil and change. In 1918, during the pro-Russia Menchevist party of Social-Democrats, who did not plan to separate from Russia, the name was officially used as '[Saqartvelos Demokratiuli Respublika]', the Democratic Republic of Sakartvelo. After the Sovietization, this was changed to '[Saqartvelos Sbat'chota Sotsialisturi Respublika]', the Soviet Socialist Republic of Sakartvelo.
After this period, Sakartvelo became the official country name, replacing the earlier self-names like Guria, Iberia, and Kartli. The last royal dynasty, abolished by Russia in 1801, held official names and titles such as 'King of Iberia', further illustrating the shift from Iberia to Sakartvelo.
Religious and Cultural Context
It is also important to note that the Georgian Church still uses the name Iberia as a country of the Iberians, which is essentially referring to the Georgians. This shows the enduring connection of the name Iberia to the cultural identity of the Georgian people, despite the changes in nomenclature.
The Adoption of 'Georgia' by the World
'Georgia' as an international name for the country, however, has its own interesting history. The name 'Georgia' is actually not a foreign designation but rather an internal name used internally. The widespread use of this name in the international context can be traced back to certain historical periods and the influence of the ancient Greek tradition.
The surname 'Jorjiashvili' and 'Jorjikia' are examples of how the name 'Jorjia' or 'Georgia' was used by the people themselves, long before it became common in the international sphere. This internal use of the name 'Georgia' contributed significantly to its eventual adoption as an internationally recognized name for the country.
The story of Sakartvelo and its evolution into Georgia highlights the complex interplay between local identity and international recognition. Understanding these historical contexts helps us appreciate the cultural richness and the historical developments behind the name.
By exploring the historical evolution of Sakartvelo, we gain insights into the cultural, political, and religious dynamics that have shaped the identity of the Georgian people over the centuries. Whether through the use of 'Sakartvelo', 'Georgia', or the earlier self-names like Iberia, the name reflects the resilience and cultural continuity of the Georgian people.