Chechnya, found on the northern side of the Caucasus Mountains, has a long history of conflict. The Chechens claim to have inhabited the region for over 6000 years, though this estimate is debated. Aggressive Muslim expansion into the lowlands had a great influence on converting the mostly pagan Chechens and Ingush to Islam. As early as the 16th century Russian Cossacks were moving south into the Caucasus, but it wasn't until the 18th century that Russian colonialism became more forceful.

In 1732, the first battle between the Russians and Chechens occurred at the Chechen-aul and it was from that battle that Russians came up with the term Chechen. Though advancing during periods, and withdrawing during others, in 1781 the Chechen elders finally accepted Russian jurisdiction. Yet in 1784, Sheikh Mansur, a shepherd's son, led an open rebellion against the Russians. This was the first major contention of Russian authority in the region.

The next great event in Chechen history is the Caucasian War (1817-1864). Led by a man named Imam Shamil, the war was much in the style of Mansur, with much of the rebellion taking place in the mountains.The war was a disaster for both sides, but by 1859, even with the war still raging in portions of the country, Russia officially annexed Chechnya.

War and conflict has come to define much of how the Chechens view themselves. Sighting the Caucasian War, as well as the rebellion by Mansur, Chechens see themselves as being oppressed by Russia, having their rightful land taken from them by settlers, and having their rights taken away as early as the 16th century. Many websites advocating Chechen independence note how they are the indigenous people. Russians see the annexation of Chechnya as beneficial to the populace, both in defending the inhabitants, and stimulating the economy.