A. V. Kolchak in the historical consciousness of Omsk residents: «War for memory» and reconciliation with the past (second half of the 1980s–2020s)

Abstract

The article is devoted to the analysis of modern receptions and representations of historical memory about one of the key figures in the history of the Civil War in Siberia – the Supreme Ruler of Russia, Admiral A. V. Kolchak. The discussions of the last thirty years about his role in Siberian history would be logical to characterize the allegory of the «war for memory». Using a regional example, the main stages of memorialization of the personality of A. V. Kolchak and the accompanying «battles for memory» are outlined; the main characteristics emphasizing the uniqueness of each stage are presented. It is concluded that the memory of Siberians about the events of the Civil War has unique features, is distinctive in public reactions to various commemorative actions and options for broadcasting historical memory. The historical plot associated with A. V. Kolchak is assessed from an anthropological point of view as traumatic. The factors necessary for the successful overcoming of this collective cultural trauma and reconciliation of society on the issue of the Civil War are outlined.