Wars in the Context of Ideology and Urbicide: Heroic Cities of World War Ii and the Karabakh War

This study examines cities that served as ideological, cultural, and geopolitical centers of resistance during the Second World War and the Karabakh wars (early and late 20th century, and the year 2020), viewing them as examples of ideological and cultural heritage. The research shows that in both wars, which were influenced by ideological, political, and economic factors, certain cities that played an active role in the struggle became key symbols of the conflict. Following the Second World War, some of these cities were awarded special honorary titles. In the Karabakh wars, cities such as Shusha, Ganja, Aghdam, and Tartar became major centers of resistance. In both wars, the invading forces implemented a policy of urbicide (intentional destruction of cities) in a number of urban areas. The gathered evidence confirms that, unlike in the case of the Second World War, this policy in Karabakh was carried out during the ceasefire period- after the territories had already been occupied. The main objective of the study is to identify the ideological, cultural, geographical, and historical significance of “hero cities” in the people’s struggle and historical memory through a comparative and analytical approach to primary sources and existing research. Since this topic has not previously been explored in Azerbaijani historiography, the study offers a new scholarly perspective and contributes to filling a gap in historical research. In conclusion, it is proposed that, on the occasion of the fifth anniversary of the liberation of Azerbaijani territories from occupation, special status reflecting historical memory be granted to the cities that played a significant role in the historical struggle against Armenian fascism. This is seen as a timely and ideologically important step for Azerbaijani historical identity.