MAIN STRATEGIES OF THE SCIENTIFIC ACTIVITY OF THE TURKESTAN DEPARTMENT OF THE RUSSIAN GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY

Abstract

This study examines the main strategic directions of the scientific activity of the Turkestan Department of the Russian Geographical Society. The research focuses on the Department’s role in the exploration and systematic study of Central Asia during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Using a historical-analytical approach, the paper analyzes archival materials, expedition reports, and scientific publications to identify the key areas of its activity, including geographical exploration, cartography, natural resource assessment, ethnographic studies, and applied research.

The findings indicate that the Department played a dual role: it significantly contributed to the development of scientific knowledge about Central Asia while simultaneously supporting the administrative and economic objectives of the Russian Empire. Its expeditions and research activities resulted in the accumulation of valuable empirical data that laid the foundation for further regional studies. At the same time, the scientific output was influenced by the colonial context of the period, shaping the interpretation of local geography and societies.