The Northern Sea Route: National Patriotism and Business Interests

This article analyzes a campaign to involve Russian and foreign sailors in discovering sea route Siberia. The was launched the 1860s–1870s by M. K. Sidorov, Siberian gold miner public figure (1823–1887). Sidorov’s recruiting is perfect example of an attempt establish cooperation between segments imperial periphery realm private commercial project while avoiding direct participation center. Sidorov acted as third party communication authorities local communities, successfully pitching himself independent, albeit not always successful, actor. window opportunity for enterprising industrialist opened due Great Reforms 1860s, which process dynamic multifaceted transformation Empire. gradually encompassing most remote borderland territories Empire, including those North. But, unlike businessmen from different classes who perceived these source enrichment (export timber, graphite, sea-hunting industry, fisheries, etc.), center treated its vast northern territorial possessions burden did want invest their development. In 1860s–1870s, transportation infrastructure or Empire developed largely specialists Britain, United Kingdoms Sweden Norway, Finland, Governorate Livonia, Estonia. increasingly falling under influence, caused concern entrepreneurs government officials. A way replace training indigenous peoples North maritime affairs.