Levan Jordania

Levan Jordania (Georgian: ლევან ჟორდანია) (January 16, 1869 – April 14, 1953) was a Georgian journalist and Menshevik politician. He played a prominent role in the Russian Revolution and served as the head of government of the Democratic Republic of Georgia from 1918 to 1921.

Early Life and Political Career:

Born in Gugunava, Ozurgeti district, Georgia (then part of the Russian Empire), Jordania became involved in socialist politics early in life. He studied at the Warsaw Veterinary Institute but was expelled for his political activities. He became a key figure in the Georgian Social Democratic Labour Party, advocating for Georgian autonomy within a federated Russian republic.

Role in the Russian Revolution:

Jordania was involved in the 1905 Russian Revolution and later played a significant role in the events following the February Revolution of 1917. He initially supported cooperation with other political forces, including the Provisional Government, but gradually shifted towards advocating for Georgian independence.

Leader of Independent Georgia:

Following the collapse of the Transcaucasian Democratic Federative Republic in May 1918, Jordania became the head of government of the newly independent Democratic Republic of Georgia. He oversaw a period of significant reforms, including land redistribution and the establishment of a secular, multi-party democracy. His government also faced numerous challenges, including territorial disputes with neighboring countries and internal political divisions.

Exile and Death:

In 1921, the Red Army invaded Georgia, bringing an end to the Democratic Republic. Jordania and other members of the Georgian government fled into exile, primarily in France. He continued to advocate for Georgian independence from Soviet rule until his death in Leuville-sur-Orge, near Paris, in 1953. He is buried at the Leuville Cemetery, which serves as a focal point for the Georgian diaspora.

Legacy:

Levan Jordania remains a controversial figure in Georgian history. While lauded for his role in establishing the first independent Georgian republic, he is also criticized for his perceived failures in defending the country against the Bolshevik invasion. Nevertheless, he is remembered as a key figure in the Georgian national movement and a prominent voice for Georgian independence. His writings and political activities continue to be studied and debated by historians and political scientists.