The Influence of Geographical Factors on the Political Structure of Gilan before the Domination of Russians

Gilan province, surrounded by auspicious natural environment namely Caspian sea and Alborz mountain chains covered by woods and having wet weather, is a geographically distinct area in Iran. This environment made particular conditions for Gilan in terms of human, economic and political issues. The isolated province from eastern caliphate, Gilan never fully surrendered to the domination of caliphate or Mughols. The province used to be ruled over by the local commanders independently. The structure of human, politics and culture in Gilan shows stability before domination of Russians who broke the natural fence of surroundings by road constructions. Studying on the environmental and political potential of Gilan province, this research states that independence and survival of local governments was the result of natural environmental, ethnical and cultural borders surrounding Gilan and Dylaman.