Doukhobors - Spirit Wrestlers

Progress and Setbacks

The 1910's
The Doukhobors in British Columbia build up agricultural communities and develop small-scale industries. In British Columbia the Doukhobors expand their communal village traditions to include prosperous commercial enterprises such as factories for the production of jams and bricks.
The 1920's
The Doukhobors are stunned by the mysterious assassination of their leader, Peter Verigin, in 1924. Their economic prosperity and independence begins to wane.
The 1930's
In the midst of the Great Depression, British Columbia Doukhobors lose control of properties worth millions of dollars.

The 1940's

Most Doukhobors, in keeping with their ideals, try to avoid participating in Canada's military efforts during the second World War. As a result, some Doukhobors are jailed.
The 1950's
In British Columbia, over a hundred Doukhobor children are taken from their families and made to attend schools run by the province.