Dissertation Grant: The Dynamics of Memory and History in a Former Soviet Penal Colony: An Anthrohistorical Study of Magadan, Siberia

Abstract OPP-9707960 Koester/Syron This dissertation research studies the development of Magadan, Siberia as a penal colony in the Stalinist period and evaluates the role of memories of this experience in the historical consciousness, social relations, and institutions of Magadan. As rapid social, political, and economic transformation takes place in Russia, memories of Soviet times are affecting and selectively being brought to bear on the present. By observing the effects and studying the conscious deployment od these memories, the project offers insight into the impact of socialist and nationalist ideologies, state policies of cultural reform and social construction, and the construction of historical representation, individual experience, and personal memory. These are addressed using personal testimonies of ex-prisoners and early residents, in-depth interviewing, and archival research.