Labor Mobilization in North Ossetian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic during Great Patriotic War

Abstract

The article discusses a range of issues related to labor mobilization during the emergency conditions of wartime in the North Ossetian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic. One of the main objectives of this article is the publication of sources in a scholarly manner. The materials from the Central State Archive of the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania and the State Archive of Recent History of the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania on the topic are introduced into scientific circulation for the first time. The materials containing decisions on implementing defense measures, creating a system of defensive fortifications, and mobilizing citizens through labor duty are analyzed. Attention is paid to the activities of the Ordzhonikidzevsk (Vladikavkaz) Defense Committee and local authorities in organizing work in these areas. The relevance of the study lies in shedding light on historical experience in taking defense measures with active support from the population in the rear. The authors emphasize that rear work helped the army to accomplish its tasks. The authors conclude that during the Great Patriotic War, heavy physical labor became a norm of life for women, children, and adolescents who replaced able-bodied men who had gone to the front. Labor mobilization allowed for the quick organization of work by a large number of people and brought victory closer.