The role of intellectuals in the establishment of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic: A human capital of 100
Based on the historical data of Professor Shirmammad Huseynov, this article analyzes the shortage of personnel during the Republic era and the decisive role of intellectuals in state-building.
Tunzale Melikova2 min read
Updated: August 28, 2026 1:46 pm
When the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic was proclaimed in 1918, the country faced a severe shortage of personnel. According to the historical research of Professor Shirmammad Huseynov, at that time there were only about 100 people with higher education, 220 with technical education, and approximately 250 graduates of the Gori Teachers' Seminary in Azerbaijan.
Despite limited human resources, this group of intellectuals carried out strategic tasks such as establishing the parliament, forming the government, building a national army, and strengthening the position of the state language. They also took the initial steps toward creating a national university and integrating Azerbaijan into the international political system.
Graduates of the Gori Teachers' Seminary played a special role in the enlightenment movement and the formation of national consciousness. During that period, teachers were not only engaged in teaching but also acted as key figures who brought books, newspapers, and new ideas to the regions.
According to Shirmammad Huseynov's notes, out of 5 million people born and deceased in Northern Azerbaijan during the 19th and 20th centuries, only 157 made history through their activities. This list includes figures such as Mirza Fatali Akhundzade, Hasan bey Zardabi, Ali bey Huseynzade, Ahmad bey Agaoglu, Uzeyir Hajibeyli, Jalil Mammadguluzade, Mammad Amin Rasulzade, and Fatali Khan Khoyski.
The main characteristic that distinguished the intellectuals of the Republic era was not just their literacy, but their ability to take responsibility and set goals greater than the problems of their time. The legacy left by the Republic, which operated for 23 months, is considered an example of achieving maximum results from limited opportunities.
