“Underground Baku”: A depiction of the struggle and life of the working class in Baku

The book “Underground Baku” by Mohammad Taghi Zehtabi (1925-2006) has been published by Aydin Publications. This work is a historical narrative that delves into the social and political struggles of the working class in Baku, Azerbaijan, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Zehtabi, a renowned historian, writer, and literary figure, particularly known for his research on Azerbaijani history and language, meticulously chronicles the difficult conditions faced by laborers in the burgeoning oil industry of Baku.

The book highlights the emergence of revolutionary movements and the spread of communist ideas among the oil workers, detailing the clandestine activities and political awakening within the city’s underground networks. It provides an analytical view of the period, drawing on historical documents, memoirs, and eyewitness accounts to paint a vivid picture of the laborers’ lives and their fight for rights.

Furthermore, “Underground Baku” emphasizes the significant role played by Baku in the broader revolutionary history of the Caucasus region and its connections to wider international movements.

Mohammad Taghi Zehtabi, born in Shabestar, East Azerbaijan, was a multifaceted scholar whose works often explored the historical and cultural ties between Iran and Azerbaijan. His legacy includes numerous books on history, literature, and linguistics.