Siberian deputies in the State Duma: search for a balance between local (regional) and all-union interests (1906-1916)

This paper raises a question of correlation and interconnection between All-Russian and regional topics in parliamentary practice of Siberian representatives in State Dumas. Orientation on studying the links and crossing lines between the multiple dimensions of social relations (in this particular case, between the regional and All-Russian identity of Siberian deputies) became an initial methodological basis for solving this question. On the ground of classification of particular historical materials, four models of political behavior can be presented: 1) consolidated actions of the Siberian parliamentary group aimed to create a conducive environment for political, social, economic and cultural development of the region; 2) quick reaction to current regional events via deputy inquiries; 3) supporting of inquiries of representatives of other regions; 4) participation in working-out and discussion of the federal draft. Comprehensive analysis of models of Siberian deputies' political behavior shows that most of them tried to find an optimal balance between representing the interests of the whole country and of its particular territory. Being especially active in setting of regional problems, Siberian deputies constantly considered them in a nation-wide context. Solutions offered by the Siberian parliamentary group did not imply giving any exceptional preferences to the region. Implementation of these solutions was supposed to help in formation of an integrated political, social, cultural and economic space by elimination of discrimination against Siberia and to provide its equal status among Russian regions. The interest of Siberian representatives in solving nation-wide problems is confirmed by their involvement into the work of various Duma's commissions and party factions. All in all, even though regional identity of the deputies was strongly pronounced, it did not conflict their All-Russian identity. Moreover, the historical experience of the Siberian parliamentary group demonstrates the potential of regional identity to be a factor of ensuring a dialog and a constructive interaction between representatives of different ideological and political movements, which allows admitting a possibility of using it as a resource for the formation of the All-Russian identity.

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