Nested Nationalism: Making and Unmaking Nations in the Soviet Caucasus, written by Krista A. Goff.

Krista A. Goff's book, "Nested Nationalism: Making and Unmaking Nations in the Soviet Caucasus," focuses on the experiences of non-titular nationalities in the Soviet Union, specifically in Azerbaijan. The book examines both top-down minority governance and individual identifications throughout the Soviet period, with a particular emphasis on the decades after Stalin. Goff argues that while non-titular nationalities saw themselves as victims of Russian dominance, republican elites often pressured minorities within their own territory to assimilate into the titular culture, which could strengthen demands for minority rights. The book provides a detailed account of the evolution of national minority categories, the impact of World War II, the development of Azeri national identity, the pressures faced by the Talyshes to identify as Azerbaijani, and minority activism in the 1960s. It also discusses the legacy of Soviet nationality policy in contemporary Azerbaijan and the ongoing struggles of minority communities. Overall, the book offers a nuanced understanding of the experiences of non-Russian nationalities in the Soviet Caucasus. [Extracted from the article]