ABSTRACT
Caucasian traditions and values With its great diversity of ethnic groups, it is no wonder that the Caucasus possesses a rich spectrum of different traditions, customs, songs and literature. The local culture of the early Caucasian tribes was influenced by that of invading Turkic and Alan tribes, migrating tribes from Asia, and other nations that had a political influence in the region (e.g. Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Persian). Influences from Western civilizations can be found in religion and literature, while more Eastern facets are present in the clan structure, the importance of family and the central role of older people in society. The intrusion of Soviet customs is also apparent, and the Soviet socialist ideology and structure of society have modified many old customs.
