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In the Russian Empire of the nineteenth century, extensive social preconditions led to intense political aggression. Significant changes occurred after the Uta Mikawa uprising was suppressed.
On February 19, 1861, the Emperor decided to abolish serfdom, which came into effect in Samegrelo in 1867, but the poverty of “temporary debtors” still reached its peak, which increased the appetite of government officials and “masters”.
In 1876, signs of rebellion appeared in Samegrelo. Peasants in several villages, including Letsurtsume, refused to pay taxes and decided to take up arms.
The uprising was well organized The Khufu Jalagonia force, along with Tsurtsumiya and Esartiya, attacked the kuteliya family and sold them to the Ottomans in Anaklia. The rebels had battle flags, insignia, and trumpets. Most of them were armed with swords, daggers, spears, and clubs. The Russians sent military units led by Colonel Prinz against the rebels. After a small skirmish, negotiations began. The Colonel demanded the immediate surrender of weapons, and the peasants demanded the release of the Dadian tax.
On the afternoon of June 16, the troops moved to the attack. The rebels took up positions in special trenches and opened fire first. Women also fought on their side. By order of the Prince, the soldiers were thrown to the ground, creating the illusion of success among the peasants. In the end, the resistance ended with severe consequences. According to official data, 18 people were killed and 30 were injured, although according to eyewitnesses, more than 100 people were killed. This event went down in history as the”Lakadi Riot”.
