Surviving Sumgait: The Pogrom of the Armenian Population Through the Eyes of Witnesses

Abstract

This article aims to reveal the details of the pogroms of the Armenian population in the Azerbaijani city of Sumgait from 27 to 29 February 1988, using eyewitness testimonies and oral histories. The primary sources for the study include published testimonies of survivors of the pogrom. Eyewitness accounts and narratives provide valuable information regarding the preparatory measures, nature and characteristics of the pogroms. It is important to note that the article presents the recurrent patterns of the pogrom as documented across multiple testimonies.

The research indicates that the Sumgait pogrom was preceded by large-scale anti- Armenian propaganda and incitement of hatred. The main disseminators of this campaign were Azerbaijanis who had moved to Sumgait from Soviet Armenia. During this period, the dehumanization of Armenians was manifested in comparisons of Armenians to various animals. Eyewitness testimonies attest to the existence of organized preparatory activities prior to the pogrom. These activities included the compilation of lists of Armenian residences, the preparation of instruments necessary for committing crimes, the preparation of instruments necessary for committing crimes, and the implementation of special signals and codes used by Azerbaijanis. Survivors’ accounts also confirm that during the days of massacre, the Sumgayit police and emergency medical services exhibited criminal negligence, and in some cases even facilitated the actions of perpetrators.