The Caucasian line of fortifications and the change in the number of Cossack population at its outpost in the 18th century

the study examines government measures to integrate the Cossacks into the empire's military structure through border protection and participation in military campaigns. The mechanisms of administrative management of Cossack formations and their gradual transformation into regular military units are investigated. The impact of North Caucasus colonization on the development of interethnic contacts among the local population, formation of new economic and cultural ties is noted. The system of fortifications of the Caucasian Line is analyzed, including the dynamics of Cossack garrison numbers at outposts and peculiarities of their material support. The geographical boundaries of the defensive complex are defined, consisting of a network of fortresses, redoubts, and outposts distributed along strategic directions. The effectiveness of various types of fortifications in the context of border territory security is examined. Archival materials from the Central State Archive of the Republic of Dagestan are presented, revealing the organization of material support for Cossack formations. The official documentation of the Kizlyar Commandant's Office is studied, including weekly reports from outposts on personnel movement and supply needs. The documents allow reconstructing the daily service activities of the Cossacks, the nature of tasks performed, and personnel distribution. Special attention is paid to the analysis of the system of food, forage, and military equipment supply. A significant array of previously unpublished sources has been introduced into scientific circulation, allowing detailed research of various aspects of military and economic activities of the Cossacks on the Caucasian Line. Analysis of financial documentation on economic works demonstrates the large-scale involvement of Cossack units by the Russian government for the protection of border territories. The peculiarities of guard duty organization, reconnaissance activities, and interaction with the local population are revealed.

Cossack, line of fortifications, Caucasus, outpost, army, fortress, report