- Source: Battle of Malka (1641)
The Battle of Malka was a major military confrontation on July 12, 1641, along the Malka River in Kabarda. This battle was part of a prolonged series of feudal conflicts among the Kabardian nobility, involving key figures from the prominent Kabardian clans.
Background
In the 17th century, Kabarda was marked by continuous feudal conflicts, primarily among powerful noble families such as the Idarovs. The dispute that led to the Battle of Malka centered around the succession of feudal estates within the Idarov lineage, with competing claims from the Kambulatoviches, led by Kelemet Kudenetov, and the Sunchaleeviches, led by Aleguko Shogenukov.
The Russian Tsarist government, aiming to secure influence in the North Caucasus, supported Kelemet Kudenetov’s claim, while Kaziev’s Kabarda aligned with the Nogai Horde and sought support from the Crimean Khanate.
Prelude to the Battle
By 1641, skirmishes had escalated, with Kelemet mobilizing a coalition of approximately 5200 troops, which included a Russian detachment of musketeers under the command of Artemy Shishmarev. Facing them was Kaziev’s Kabarda, led by Aleguko Shogenukov and Hatokshoko Kaziev, who despite having a smaller force, were strategically advantaged by their knowledge of the terrain and efficient use of cavalry.
The Battle
The confrontation began with Kelemet's forces launching an attack on the settlements and livestock of Kaziev’s Kabarda along the Malka River. However, Kaziev’s forces, anticipating the attack, executed a tactical counter-offensive. Utilizing the mountainous terrain, they lured Kelemet’s troops into a ravine near the river, where the Kabardians and their Nogai allies were able to encircle and overpower them. The terrain proved to be a significant disadvantage for Kelemet’s forces, resulting in heavy casualties, including the deaths of key leaders.
Outcome and Significance
The battle ended in a decisive victory for Kaziev’s Kabarda and the Lesser Nogai Horde. The deaths of Kelemet Kudenetov, Aidamir Shamkhal, Eldar Ibakov, and Russian captain Artemy Shishmarev marked a significant shift in power, weakening Moscow’s influence over Kabarda and consolidating the power of Kaziev’s Kabarda. This battle is often viewed as a symbolic end to the Idarov era and a milestone in the ongoing feudal struggles of Kabarda.
Legacy
The Battle of Malka underscores the complexities of Kabardian politics in the 17th century and the shifting alliances with neighboring powers, including the Russian Tsarist government and the Crimean Khanate. The conflict also highlights the importance of feudal allegiances and the role of noble patronage in shaping the region’s political landscape.
References
Bibliography
Кабардино-русские отношения в XVI–XVIII вв.: Документы и материалы. М.: Издательство Академии Наук СССР, 1957.
Дзамихов, К.Ф. Кабарда и Россия в политической истории Кавказа XVI–XVII вв. Нальчик: КБГУ, 2007.
Озова, Ф.А. Причины и последствия сражения на реке Малка 12 июля 1641 г. Вестник КБИГИ, 2010.
Челеби, Эвлия. Книга путешествия. Земли Северного Кавказа. М.: Наука, 1979.
