A. A. Bashmakov as editor-in-chief of the “Government Gazette” (1906-1913)

This article is dedicated to examination of the activity of the Russian publicist A. A. Bashmakov (1858-1943) as editor-in-chief of the “Government Gazette” in the period from May 1906 to February 1913. The introductory part of the article provides an overview of the used historiography and sources. The first part of the article explores the peculiarities of issuing newspaper in the early XX century, the circumstances of A. A. Bashmakov's appointment to the post, his daily tasks as the editor, and criticism of the published materials. The second part traces the changes in the newspaper “Addendum to the Government Gazette” due to the appointment of a new editor. The third part analyzes the question of his resignation. In conclusion, the author analyzes the results achieved by A. A. Bashmakov. The research employs a range of poorly studied archival sources and newspaper materials, as well as reminiscences. The novelty of this work is defined by the absence of information about A. A. Bashmakov as an editor, as well as insignificant number of literary sources dedicated to the central official government press of this period. This article contributes to the study of functionality of government print media in 1906 – 1907, which are the first years of A. A. Bashmakov in the role of editor-in-chief.. In feuilletons and articles, the editor-in-chief had an opportunity to express personal point of view on various matters. The content of the “Addendum to the Government Gazette” was left to his discretion; however, the newspaper was shut down due to reasons beyond control of the editor-in-chief.