The Social Aspect of the “Gold Rush” Phenomenon in Yenisey Siberia in Period 1830–1990s

This paper examines the social aspect of the phenomenon of the "gold rush" that unfolded in the vast expanses of Yenisei Siberia in the 1830-1890s.The authors consider the unique features of the "gold rush" process in the Yenisei taiga, analyze the socio-professional groups engaged in labor activities in the gold fields.Based on extensive factual material, the working and living conditions of workers -the main participants in gold mining at all stages of the "gold rush" unfolding in the region from unprecedented rise to extinction -have been studied.A separate description of the state of medical care for workers in the mines is given.The analysis of pre-revolutionary materials revealed the presence of a systemic logistical problem in the region and its negative impact on both the quality of life of gold workers and the system of interactions between all participants in the gold mining process in Yenisei Siberia.The authors attempted to create a conditional social portrait of a gold merchant as a broad, strong, risky person, very prominent in the public life of the region.The scientific article draws conclusions about the impact that the phenomenon of the "gold rush" had on the previously quiet course of life in the taiga hinterland on the outskirts of a huge empire.In general, it is difficult to overestimate the social significance of this phenomenon, which has stirred up the wild taiga region.