t insurrection based on religious lines set an important precedent for the future of Chechnya.
             The next step in the developing animosity between Russia and Chechnya was the appointment of General Yermolov as Commander in Chief of Georgia from 1816-1827. His xenophobic, anti-Islamic, and strong-handed tactics in cracking down on rebellious elements within his jurisdiction initiated a huge wave of anti-Russian feelings. His attempts at crushing all opposition to Moscow were thorough and ferocious but divided the two sides further apart. Yremolov required the Chechens to give up all their arms, which had strong cultural importance, as a means of controlling the population. This set off a strong wave of resentment and revolts throughout the Caucasus and soon raids were constantly being sent against Russian and Cossack settlements. In retribution Yermolov sent his troops into areas where rebels operated and if the village did not hand over the culprits and their families the whole village was eliminated.
             During this time period, the Chechens were als
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