Modernization and Manipulation: The Decline, Preservation, and Implications of Minority Language Use in Russia

This work presents a synthesis of research on the decline in minority language use and learning in Russia. Through the analysis of primary and secondary sources, I relate the loss of minority language learning to urbanization... [ view full abstract ]

This work presents a synthesis of research on the decline in minority language use and learning in Russia. Through the analysis of primary and secondary sources, I relate the loss of minority language learning to urbanization and government policies. I argue that the decrease in minority language learning and use was in part an unintended side effect of modernization. However, I show that there was also manipulation by the Russian government to decrease the power of minority ethnic groups. The implications of this analysis are far-reaching, and can inform future policy decisions for other countries in which minority languages are threatened by modernization, serving as a lesson for governmental bodies.