The Role of Cultural and Educational Institutions in the Development of Public Thought in The Early 20th Century

Abstract

This article analyzes the significant role played by cultural and educational institutions in shaping and advancing public thought in Azerbaijan in the early 20th century. The study demonstrates that, under the colonial policy of Tsarist Russia, the development of national education became a fundamental instrument for preserving the national identity, language, and culture of the Azerbaijani people. The educational activities of prominent intellectuals such as Hasan bey Zardabi, Ali bey Huseynzade, Ahmad bey Agayev, Omar Faiq Nemanzade, and Muhammad Amin Rasulzade were decisive in awakening public consciousness and disseminating ideas of national progress.

The article also examines the influence of periodicals such as Açıq Söz (Open Word), Füyuzat, and Dirilik, as well as educational societies like Nicat, Səadət, and Nəşri-Maarif, and new-type schools on the national awakening process. Ultimately, the author notes that, in the early 20th century, cultural and educational institutions became not only centers of learning but also hubs for the development of national ideology and public thought. This educational movement laid the ideological groundwork for the establishment of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic.