V. G. Chertkov
A prominent Russian editor and Tolstoyan, Vladimir Chertkov edited Leo Tolstoy's works and helped establish the Soviet Union's conscientious objection program.
- Lived
- 1854–1936
- Nationality
- Russian
- Era
- Tolstoyan
- Language
- English
Vladimir Grigoryevich Chertkov (1854–1936), whose name is also transliterated as Chertkoff, Tchertkoff, or Tschertkow, was a prominent Russian figure best known for his deep involvement with the legacy of Leo Tolstoy. Living through the transition from imperial Russia to the Soviet era, Chertkov distinguished himself as one of the most notable Tolstoyans of his time. His primary contribution to Russian letters was his extensive work as one of the editors of Leo Tolstoy's written works, a role that involved organizing and preparing the author's writings for publication.
Beyond his editorial contributions, Chertkov was highly active in social and religious organizing, particularly after the Russian revolutions of 1917. During this period of transition, he was instrumental in the creation of the United Council of Religious Communities and Groups. This organization eventually took on the responsibility of administering the conscientious objection program for the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic (SFSR). Through these efforts, Chertkov played a key role in managing religious and pacifist affairs during the early years of the Soviet regime, bridging his editorial dedication to Tolstoy with active social administration.