Giga BASILADZE

Niko Nikoladze (1843-1928) was a prominent Georgian thinker, journalist, and public figure who played a significant role in shaping the national discourse and socio-economic reforms of 19th-century Georgia. Emerging as a leader during the 1860s, he emphasized the importance of national identity, economic development, and modern education. In his early views, he argued that Georgia was not yet ready for independence and needed to focus on strengthening its intellectual and moral foundation through education and institutional reforms. However, he was a vocal critic of the Russian Empire’s assimilation policies and advocated for the protection of Georgian culture and self-governance. By the 1890s, Nikoladze supported the idea of a federal arrangement within the Russian Empire, proposing that Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan function as autonomous entities while cooperating for mutual progress. His vision of governance was inspired by the British constitutional monarchy, emphasizing democracy, self-governance, and legal reforms. Unlike other national movement leaders who prioritized full independence, Nikoladze promoted gradual and strategic reforms to ensure national progress.This study explores Nikoladze’s ideas on national identity, education, economic development, and democratic governance. By analyzing his contributions, it sheds light on how his perspectives continue to influence the formation of modern Georgian civil society and statehood. His pragmatic approach and advocacy for intellectual and economic development remain relevant in contemporary discussions on nation-building and governance.

Key words: Georgia, Nikoladze, national movement, national question, civil society.