The Yakuts in the Territory of Magadan Region: Formation of the Ethnic Identity
This is an ethnic investigation into the history of the Yakuts living in the territory of Magadan Region. The available archive materials and field study results serve as a basis for the author to conclude on circumstances and factors, which favor for the forming ethnic identity of this native community. The role of the ethnic leaders is shown. A conclusion is made that the idea of self-determination of the Yakuts in this area as a small native group was "launched' and sustained by a number of precedents of its recognition by the outer side as the surrounding society and its institutions. The ethnic-favoring factors and conditions are established at a small native group level.