The March days of 1918: Azerbaijan's history, remembrance, and path to peace

Over a century ago, the streets of Baku were engulfed in violence as thousands of civilians perished during the March Days of 1918, marking one of the darkest chapters in Azerbaijan’s history.

In March 1918, the Caucasus was thrust into a web of power struggles as the Russian Empire collapsed and the First World War continued to rage across Europe.

The region quickly became a battleground of competing ideologies, ambitions and external interests. At the centre of this conflict stood Baku.

The capital of Azerbaijan became one of the most valuable locations in the world at the time, thanks to its vast oil resources. Producing millions of tonnes of oil annually - more than half of global supply - the city was a focal point for both revolutionary and imperial ambitions.

Violence and its causes

Driven by the rise of Bolshevism, Bolshevik forces sought to consolidate control over the region. In doing so, they exploited existing tensions among diverse communities, fuelling instability that culminated in days of horrific violence.

During these events, the Azerbaijani population was killed on a mass scale by Bolshevik forces supported by the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (Dashnaktsutyun), according to Azerbaijani historical accounts.

Within just a few days, an estimated 12,000 to 20,000 civilians were killed across ethnic and religious lines.

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While often described as ethnic clashes, historical accounts suggest the violence was closely tied to broader geopolitical manoeuvring. Competing powers, including Britain and Germany, also sought influence in the Caucasus, viewing it as a critical front in their wider strategic ambitions.

Amid the collapse of imperial rule, smaller nations and communities in the region, aspiring to independence and self-determination, found themselves caught between rival forces.

Promises of support were often short-lived, leaving local populations vulnerable as larger powers pursued their own interests.

The events of March 1918 stand as a stark example of how global rivalries can devastate local societies, turning the Caucasus into a tragic theatre of conflict and leaving deep, lasting divisions.

This episode is widely regarded in Azerbaijan as a painful catalyst in the chain of developments leading to the proclamation of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic on 28 May 1918.

Path to peace

More than a century later, those lessons remain relevant. The region, home to millions, continues to carry the legacy of instability.

But recent developments also point to a shift towards a different future. Following decades of conflict over the Garabagh region, the 2020 ceasefire between Azerbaijan and Armenia, along with subsequent diplomatic efforts, has opened new pathways towards peace. Talks on border delimitation, transport links and economic cooperation signal a gradual move towards normalisation.

Regional initiatives, including the reopening of transport corridors, are expected to strengthen connectivity and support economic development across the South Caucasus.

These steps are increasingly seen as laying the groundwork for long-term stability and cooperation.

Remembering the March Days of 1918 is not only about honouring the victims, but also about understanding the consequences of division and external interference.

This day has been officially commemorated in Azerbaijan as the Day of Genocide of Azerbaijanis since 1998.

As Azerbaijan reflects on this solemn chapter, the region now stands at a crossroads, with renewed opportunities for reconciliation, partnership and lasting peace.

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News Politics Azerbaijan Baku March Days of 1918 31 March Day of Remembrance Tragedy Peace South Caucasus