09 April 2003, 16:22
Vakhtang the Sixth
Vicegerent and later the czar of Kartli in 1703-1724 (in 1712-1719, was suspended from ruling by Iran shah), Georgian writer, scientist, and politician.
Born in 1675. In the foreign policy area, followed his predecessors leaning more towards Russia. Under Vakhtang the Sixth's guidance, were created Collection of Laws and Dasturlamali, a collection of orders and instructions on statecraft. In 1709, at his initiative, the first Georgian typography was founded in Tbilisi, in which laic books were published along with the clerical ones; for example, the first printed edition of Shota Rustaveli's epic Warrior in Tiger Skin with scientific comments by Vakhtang the Sixth was published in 1712). Vakhtang the Sixth created a Commission of scientists for compiling the history of Georgia in 14th thru 18th centuries and its inclusion in the collection Kartlis tskhovreba (Life of Kartli). Complications in internal and external environments and Vakhtang the Sixth's inability to oppose the Turkish aggression forced him to emigrate to Russia in 1724, accompanied by family and numerous suite (around 1,400 persons). While in emigration, Vakhtang the Sixth did not cut his contacts with Georgia and cherished a plan of its liberation. Vakhtang the Sixth's poetry is characterized by patriotic contents. Some of his verses have a trail of mystics and life dissatisfaction. Was also a lexicographer and translator. Prepared two translated editions of fable collection Kalila and Dimna (1714-1716).
Vakhtang the Sixth deceased in Astrakhan in March 1737.
