Provincial Officials of Far East and Formation of Regional Public Organizations in Last Quarter of 19th — Early 20th Centuries

Abstract

The activity of officials in the creation of public organizations and objects of socio-cultural infrastructure of the Primorsky region in the last quarter of the 19th — early 20th centuries is considered. Based on the analysis of archival office materials, reports of public organizations and sources of personal origin, the composition of participants, motives, areas of activity, forms and content of the contribution of Primorye employees are revealed. It is concluded that socio-cultural activities are widespread among officials, including representatives of the regional and district administrations, as well as officials of the Main Directorate of the Amur Governorate General. The author established the main motives for the participation of representatives of the administration in the formation of new societies and socio-cultural objects: official duty, imitation of fashion, personal interest, social significance. The key areas of socio-cultural activities are identified — charity, care and science, as well as individual initiatives in the areas of education, creativity and art, leisure. The main forms of contribution are determined: participation, assistance in the development and approval of statutory documents, financial and material donations, personal guidance, search for like-minded people. The importance of activities to create societies and socio-cultural objects for building a dialogue between the administration and the population and strengthening the connection of officials with the region is noted.