May 21st marks the Circassian genocide, when the Russian Empire systematically of exterminated the Circassian population. 90% of the Circassian population perished through mass killings and starvation while thousands were forcibly displaced from their homeland.
The goal was to clear the land for Russian conquest and settlement, and to suppress further Caucasian resistance. A British diplomat who witnessed it noted, “their only crime was not being Russian.”

The Circassian struggle for life and identity Historically, Circassians always have struggled for their existence and life. There were even times when Circassians were on the edge of extinction, which I will share more later on. But we always managed to grow back all over again 2 times stronger than ever.

"Throughout my life, my heart has burned with an unyielding passion for the freedom of my motherland. In the brief moments when I wasn't battling against our foes, the Russians, I dedicated myself to mending my wounds and nourishing the young ones.- -As a result of my lifelong mission to protect my homeland, I didn't properly meet my own son until he was old enough to join me on the battlefield.-

Taras Shevchenko, an Ukrainian poet, glorified the Circassian struggle for independence in one of his poems. Shevchenko addresses the heroic Circassians: 

„And glory, freedom's knights, to you,
Whom God will not forsake.
Keep fighting—you are sure to win!
God helps you in your fight!
For fame and freedom march with you, 
And right is on your side!”

Sounds of songs in different North Caucasian languages (THREAD)

1. Circassian 2. Abazin

Dragons in Circassian Mythology:

The Dragons (Circassian: благъо/блэгъожъ), in Circassian Nart Epics and Mythology, are well known dangerous inhabitants in the “Middle Sea” or “Two Seas”. They have black blood in their veins, and their breathing is poisoning. Many strong Circassian warriors lost their lives because of inhaling their air. Some dragons were even able to incarnate human-like creatures.