Protoierey Mihail Chakir - orthodox priest, gagauzian spiritual leader and historian (1861-1938) - and the question of emancipation of Gagauzians as the independent nation

The article reflects the main bibliographical aspects of priest and illuminist of Gagauz origin Mihail Ciachir, who influenced substantially the self-identification process and the formation of national consciousness of Gagauz people. The personality and achievements of this prominent figure are analyzed in context of ethnic origin and history of Gagauzians. According to some authors, there are two periods in the establishment of Gagauzians and separation from their “Bulgarians settlers”. The first period includes the separation of Gagauzians from Bulgarians and the "creation" of this ethnic group by Romanian authorities, then by the Soviets, based on political reasons and using the principle of "divide et impera" to weaken the Bulgarian diaspora in Bessarabia. The second period is characterized by the awakening of national consciousness under the influence of Gagauz intellectuals.