«OUTSTANDING LEADERS» IN SIBERIAN EXILE

Abstract

The article deals with evidence of anti-autocracy activists' presence in exile in Siberia at the beginning of the XX century. Those two later was called 'outstanding leaders' of the ruling Bolshevik party by V. I. Lenin who considered them as his possible successors. A prison and an exiled wasn't considered as something extraordinary by professional revolutionaries. They rather thought of it as possible (inevitable) part of current revolutionary activities. The exile to Siberia, however, was a quite serious test, primarily, due to farness from Russian metropolises, isolation, harsh conditions of life and climate. The attempt to bring to light the aspects of being in Siberian exile as political prisoners was made based on available documentary and literary sources. Striving to continue journalistic and revolutionary activities even in extreme circumstances was the most important thing. According to the author, this particular reason made it possible for them to continue political activity after the exile, which led them to the pinnacle of the party and governmental authority.