The Circassians (Adyghe) are an indigenous people of the North Caucasus, originating from their historic homeland of Circassia, located between the eastern coast of the Black Sea and the Caucasus Mountains. With a history dating back thousands of years, they are known for their warrior culture, democratic traditions, and unique language. One of the defining features of Circassian society is “Khabze,” a traditional code of conduct emphasizing respect, hospitality, justice, courage, and communal responsibility, which has shaped both individual behavior and social life for generations.

 

Throughout history, the Circassians resisted numerous invasions. However, their most significant struggle was against the Russian Empire in the 18th and 19th centuries, as Russia sought to expand its control over Circassia. Despite agreements with the Ottoman Empire and Western powers that recognized Circassian sovereignty, Russia violated these treaties, continuing its invasion of Circassia. The Circassians mounted a long, determined, and powerful resistance, defending their homeland for over a century (1763-1864) against a far larger and better-equipped force.

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In this context of sustained resistance and rising national consciousness, the modern Circassian flag was created in 1834, during the active phase of the struggle against Russian expansion. It was adopted and embraced by all major Circassian tribes as a unifying national symbol. In the same year, a Circassian Declaration of Independence was also issued, formally asserting the political sovereignty of Circassia. The flag itself, with its distinctive green field and golden arrows, became one of the most powerful symbols of freedom, homeland defense, and resistance against occupation, representing the unity and determination of the Circassian people in their struggle to preserve their independence.

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This resistance ended in 1864 with the occupation of Circassia, marking one of the darkest chapters in Circassian history—the Circassian Genocide. Hundreds of thousands were killed, and nearly 90% of the population was forcibly exiled, primarily to Ottoman lands. Many perished during the brutal deportations due to starvation, disease, and mass drownings in the Black Sea. The Russian campaign involved systematic killings, destruction of villages, and policies aimed at erasing the Circassian presence in their homeland.

 

Today, approximately 1 million Circassians live in their ancestral homeland of Circassia, while the global Circassian diaspora is spread across Turkey, Jordan, Israel, Syria, the United States, and various European countries. Altogether, the total Circassian population is estimated to be between 6 and 9 million. Despite the hardships of exile and assimilation pressures, Circassians continue to preserve their language, culture, and identity. They have established cultural associations, foundations, and events to keep their traditions alive, while also working toward recognition of the Circassian Genocide and reconnecting with their ancestral homeland. The struggle for historical justice and cultural survival remains central to the Circassian identity.