The systematic destruction of the Armenian population within the Ottoman Empire during World War I is a crucial topic in Advanced Placement World History. This event, characterized by forced deportations, massacres, and starvation, represents a significant example of genocide in the 20th century. Understanding the causes, course, and consequences of this tragedy is essential for students studying the period. For instance, Ottoman officials implemented policies that targeted Armenian intellectuals and community leaders, followed by the forced removal of civilians to harsh desert environments without adequate resources.
Examination of this historical event offers numerous benefits for AP World History students. It provides a case study for understanding the complexities of nationalism, imperialism, and wartime policies. Further, it allows students to analyze primary and secondary source evidence, develop critical thinking skills, and construct historical arguments regarding causation and impact. Additionally, learning about the event encourages reflection on human rights, state-sponsored violence, and the responsibility of individuals and nations in preventing future atrocities.
Given the significance of the topic, the study of this historical event will involve exploring the political context of the late Ottoman Empire, the role of World War I in escalating tensions, and the international response to the atrocities. Examination of diverse perspectives, including those of Armenians, Turks, and other contemporary observers, will foster a nuanced understanding of this complex and tragic episode in world history. Discussion will encompass debates surrounding terminology, historical interpretation, and the lasting impact on Armenian identity and international relations.
1. Ottoman Empire
The Ottoman Empire serves as the essential historical context for understanding the Armenian genocide. Its socio-political structure, internal dynamics, and wartime circumstances directly contributed to the environment in which the atrocities occurred. Examination of the Empire’s decline and the rise of Turkish nationalism is critical for comprehending the motivations and mechanisms behind the systematic targeting of the Armenian population.
-
Decline and Instability
The late Ottoman Empire experienced significant territorial losses, economic problems, and internal ethnic tensions. This period of decline fostered an environment of paranoia and scapegoating within the government. The ruling Committee of Union and Progress (CUP) sought to consolidate power and maintain the Empires integrity, often through policies that targeted minority groups, including Armenians, who were sometimes viewed as a threat to national unity.
-
Rise of Turkish Nationalism
The emergence of Turkish nationalism, particularly under the CUP, emphasized the idea of a homogenous Turkish state. This ideology marginalized non-Turkish populations and contributed to discriminatory policies. Armenians, as a distinct ethnic and religious group, were increasingly viewed as “outsiders” and potential obstacles to the creation of a unified Turkish nation. The nationalist fervor provided a justification for the systematic removal of Armenians from their ancestral lands.
-
World War I Context
The Ottoman Empire’s entry into World War I on the side of the Central Powers provided a cover for the CUP to implement its policies against the Armenians. The war created a state of emergency, enabling the government to implement drastic measures under the guise of national security. Armenian soldiers were disarmed and often executed, and the forced deportations were justified as necessary to prevent collaboration with the enemy (Russia) along the eastern front. The chaotic conditions of wartime facilitated the widespread violence and massacres.
-
Centralized Government and Bureaucracy
The Ottoman Empire possessed a centralized government and a well-established bureaucracy, which enabled the efficient implementation of the genocidal policies. Orders for deportation and extermination were issued from the central government and carried out by local officials and military units. The bureaucracy facilitated the systematic confiscation of Armenian property and the erasure of Armenian cultural heritage. This centralized control was crucial for the scale and scope of the atrocities.
These facets of the Ottoman Empire are inextricably linked to the destruction of Armenians during WWI. The Empire’s decline, the rise of nationalism, the wartime context, and the centralized government all played crucial roles in creating the conditions that enabled and facilitated the atrocities. Understanding these connections is vital for a comprehensive analysis of the genocide and its place in AP World History.
2. World War I
World War I provided the specific context and conditions that enabled the perpetration of the Armenian genocide within the Ottoman Empire. While long-standing tensions and discriminatory policies existed, the war served as the catalyst and justification for the systematic destruction of the Armenian population. Its influence can be seen in various facets.
-
Cover for Political Agendas
The wartime environment allowed the ruling Committee of Union and Progress (CUP) to implement its nationalist agenda under the guise of national security. The CUP sought to consolidate power and create a homogenous Turkish state. Accusations of Armenian disloyalty and collaboration with the enemy (Russia) provided a pretext for targeting the community. The chaotic conditions of war allowed these political agendas to be pursued with limited international scrutiny.
-
Mobilization and Resource Control
The Ottoman Empire’s mobilization for war demanded significant resources, which were often seized from minority populations, including Armenians. This economic exploitation contributed to the Armenians’ vulnerability and created resentment among the Turkish population. The war also provided opportunities for the confiscation of Armenian property and the destruction of Armenian cultural heritage, further weakening the community’s ability to resist the genocide.
-
Military Operations and Deportations
The war facilitated the systematic deportations of Armenians from their ancestral lands, particularly from the eastern provinces bordering Russia. These deportations were often carried out under the supervision of the military and paramilitary forces. The deportees were subjected to brutal conditions, including forced marches, starvation, and attacks by bandits. The war provided the logistical framework and justification for these inhumane operations.
-
Suppression of Dissent and Information Control
The wartime state of emergency allowed the CUP government to suppress dissent and control information. Censorship was imposed on the press, and opposition voices were silenced. This made it difficult for news of the atrocities to reach the outside world and hindered efforts to mobilize international opposition to the genocide. The suppression of information allowed the perpetrators to act with impunity.
In conclusion, the conditions of World War I were intrinsically linked to the perpetration of the genocide against Armenians within the Ottoman Empire. The war provided the pretext, the justification, and the means for the CUP government to carry out its genocidal policies. The resulting chaos, resource demands, military operations, and suppression of dissent created an environment in which the systematic destruction of the Armenian population could occur with relative impunity, highlighting the profound and tragic connection between the global conflict and this targeted atrocity.
3. Systematic destruction
The concept of systematic destruction is central to understanding the historical event defined as the Armenian genocide. The term implies a deliberate and organized effort to eliminate a targeted group, differentiating it from spontaneous acts of violence or isolated incidents. The destruction was not random; rather, it followed a pattern orchestrated by the Ottoman government, involving specific stages and methods designed to eradicate the Armenian population from the Empire. The “armenian genocide ap world history definition” relies heavily on the demonstrable systematic nature of the violence to categorize it as genocide, a crime against humanity.
The implementation of systematic destruction involved a multi-pronged approach. Initial actions included the disarmament of Armenian soldiers serving in the Ottoman army, rendering them defenseless. This was followed by the arrest and execution of Armenian intellectuals, community leaders, and prominent figures, effectively decapitating the community and removing potential resistance. Subsequent phases involved the mass deportation of Armenian civilians from their homes and villages, often to the Syrian Desert, without adequate provisions for survival. These deportations were characterized by forced marches, starvation, disease, and violence perpetrated by Ottoman soldiers and paramilitary groups. Furthermore, the confiscation of Armenian property and the destruction of religious and cultural sites aimed to erase Armenian presence and identity from the historical record.
Understanding the systematic nature of the atrocities is crucial for AP World History students. It allows for a deeper analysis of the causes and motivations behind the genocide, moving beyond simplistic explanations of wartime necessity or ethnic conflict. Recognizing the deliberate planning and execution of the destruction highlights the role of the Ottoman government and its leaders in perpetrating the crime. Moreover, the systematic aspect emphasizes the severity of the event and its lasting impact on the Armenian people and the world. By grasping this element, students can critically assess historical evidence, construct informed arguments, and engage in discussions regarding human rights, state-sponsored violence, and the prevention of future genocides. The challenge lies in conveying the scale and scope of the systematic destruction through historical documentation and ensuring students comprehend the intentionality behind the actions.
4. Armenian population
The Armenian population forms the very core of the event defined as the Armenian genocide. It was this specific group, identified by their ethnicity and religious affiliation, that was systematically targeted for annihilation within the Ottoman Empire. Therefore, understanding the characteristics, geographic distribution, and socio-political position of the Armenian population within the Ottoman context is indispensable for comprehending the nature and scope of the genocide. The Armenian presence in the region predates the Ottoman Empire, establishing a long history and deep connection to the land, which the genocide sought to erase. The targeted elimination of this population underscores the intent and scope of the atrocities.
The “armenian genocide ap world history definition” is intrinsically linked to the demographic, cultural, and economic impact on the Armenian people. For instance, the forced deportations and massacres decimated entire Armenian communities, leading to a significant reduction in the population within their historical territories. Moreover, the destruction of Armenian cultural sites and the suppression of their language and traditions aimed to erase their identity and assimilate those who survived. Examples include the near complete eradication of the Armenian population from regions such as Cilicia and Western Armenia, areas where they had lived for millennia. The legacy of this destruction continues to impact Armenian communities worldwide, influencing their collective memory and identity.
The study of the Armenian population is thus not merely a demographic exercise but an investigation into the human cost of genocide. Understanding the pre-genocide life, the targeted destruction, and the lasting impact on the survivors and their descendants is essential for a complete and nuanced understanding of this historical event. Challenges in this area include addressing denialist narratives and ensuring that the voices and experiences of the Armenian population are accurately represented in historical accounts. Furthermore, the ability to connect the experiences of the Armenian population to broader themes of human rights, ethnic conflict, and state-sponsored violence is critical for achieving the educational goals of AP World History.
5. Forced deportations
Forced deportations represent a core element in understanding the systematic destruction that defines the “armenian genocide ap world history definition”. They were not merely relocations but a key method employed to eliminate the Armenian population from their ancestral lands within the Ottoman Empire.
-
Method of Extermination
Deportations were implemented under the guise of wartime necessity, but their primary objective was the extermination of the Armenian population. Convoys of deportees were driven into harsh desert environments without adequate food, water, or shelter. Ottoman authorities often directed the deportations along routes known for banditry and attacks by Turkish paramilitary groups. The conditions were deliberately designed to ensure a high mortality rate, effectively using deportation as a means of mass killing.
-
Separation and Vulnerability
The deportations served to separate Armenian families and communities, rendering them more vulnerable to violence and starvation. Men were often separated from women and children and either executed or conscripted into forced labor, weakening the social fabric of Armenian society. The forced displacement also disrupted traditional support networks and kinship ties, leaving deportees without resources to survive.
-
Confiscation of Property and Erasure of Presence
The forced deportations were accompanied by the systematic confiscation of Armenian property, including homes, businesses, and land. This served to enrich Ottoman officials and Turkish citizens while depriving the Armenian population of their economic base. The removal of Armenians from their ancestral lands and the appropriation of their assets were aimed at erasing their presence and identity from the historical record.
-
Psychological Impact and Trauma
The forced deportations inflicted profound psychological trauma on the Armenian population. The loss of homes, family members, and community ties resulted in widespread grief, fear, and despair. The trauma of deportation continues to impact Armenian communities worldwide, shaping their collective memory and identity. It also served as a deliberate tactic to break the spirit of the Armenian people and prevent future resistance.
The systematic nature of these forced deportations, combined with their devastating consequences, solidifies their role as a central component in defining the Armenian genocide. The deportations were not isolated incidents but a planned strategy aimed at the total elimination of the Armenian population within the Ottoman Empire, underscoring the events place as a critical study in AP World History concerning genocide and crimes against humanity.
6. Massacres
Massacres constitute a harrowing and integral element of the systematic destruction defining the “armenian genocide ap world history definition.” They were not isolated incidents of violence but rather deliberate and widespread acts designed to exterminate the Armenian population within the Ottoman Empire. Understanding their nature, scope, and role in the overall genocidal process is essential for a comprehensive understanding of this historical tragedy.
-
Organized Violence
Massacres were often meticulously planned and executed by Ottoman authorities, involving military units, paramilitary groups, and local civilians. These events were not spontaneous outbreaks but rather organized operations targeting Armenian communities. Examples include the massacres in towns like Erzurum and Van, where Armenian populations were systematically rounded up and murdered. These organized acts of violence underscore the intentional and systematic nature of the genocide.
-
Targeting of Vulnerable Populations
Massacres frequently targeted the most vulnerable members of the Armenian population, including women, children, and the elderly. These groups were often defenseless and unable to resist the violence. Reports document instances of mass rapes, mutilations, and infanticide as part of the massacre events. The targeting of such vulnerable populations demonstrates the extreme brutality and inhumanity of the perpetrators and the scale of destruction against Armenian communities.
-
Part of a Broader Strategy
Massacres were not isolated from other genocidal policies, such as forced deportations and starvation. They were often carried out in conjunction with these other measures to ensure the complete elimination of the Armenian population. For example, after deporting Armenian communities from their homes, Ottoman soldiers would frequently ambush and massacre the deportees along their routes. These synchronized attacks maximized the death toll and terrorized the remaining Armenian population.
-
Impunity and Lack of Accountability
The perpetrators of the massacres were rarely held accountable for their actions, fostering a climate of impunity that further encouraged violence. Ottoman officials often shielded those responsible for the atrocities and suppressed investigations into the massacres. This lack of accountability contributed to the escalation of violence and the widespread belief among Ottoman authorities that they could act with impunity against the Armenian population.
The systematic nature of massacres, their targeting of vulnerable populations, their integration into a broader strategy of annihilation, and the impunity enjoyed by the perpetrators all solidify their central role in defining the “armenian genocide ap world history definition.” These atrocities highlight the intentionality and scope of the Ottoman government’s effort to eliminate the Armenian population, underscoring its importance within the AP World History curriculum.
7. Starvation
Starvation played a critical, deliberate role in the destruction defining the “armenian genocide ap world history definition.” It was not merely a consequence of displacement or wartime conditions but a calculated method used by Ottoman authorities to systematically eliminate the Armenian population. The deprivation of food and water, both during forced deportations and in concentration camps, was a core element of the genocidal strategy. This calculated act significantly contributed to the mass deaths and suffering experienced by the Armenian people. Deportees were often sent on long marches through harsh terrain, such as the Syrian Desert, without adequate provisions. Ottoman officials actively prevented access to food and water along these routes, ensuring a high mortality rate. The denial of sustenance was thus an intentional act of cruelty, designed to accelerate the extermination process. For example, eyewitness accounts detail how those who collapsed from exhaustion and hunger were often left to die, with no assistance provided. The intentionality behind this policy demonstrates that starvation was a calculated instrument in the overall genocidal plan.
The importance of starvation as a component of the “armenian genocide ap world history definition” is underscored by its devastating impact on the Armenian population. It weakened the deportees, making them more susceptible to disease and violence. The lack of food and water led to widespread malnutrition, contributing to the spread of illnesses such as dysentery and typhus, which further decimated the population. Moreover, the psychological effects of starvation were profound, leading to despair, hopelessness, and the breakdown of social structures. The deliberate denial of sustenance was thus not only a physical attack but also a psychological assault on the Armenian people. Practical applications of this understanding extend to analyzing the intent behind genocidal acts, allowing historians to assess whether the devastation was a result of unintentional conditions or calculated strategies. Understanding how starvation was employed provides critical insights into the mentality and goals of the perpetrators.
In summary, starvation constitutes a fundamental aspect of the Armenian genocide, directly contributing to the systematic destruction of the Armenian population. It was implemented as a deliberate policy, exacerbating suffering and significantly increasing mortality rates. Recognizing starvation as a calculated strategy provides crucial context for understanding the “armenian genocide ap world history definition” and for analyzing the intent and methods employed in this tragic event. A challenge remains in conveying the full horror and human cost of this policy, ensuring that students comprehend the scale of suffering and the systematic nature of the atrocities. Nevertheless, the study of starvation underscores the importance of remembering and learning from this dark chapter in human history to prevent similar atrocities in the future.
8. Denial
Denial surrounding the systematic destruction of Armenians within the Ottoman Empire, as defined in AP World History, constitutes a significant obstacle to historical understanding and reconciliation. This denial, often state-sponsored or culturally ingrained, impacts interpretations and discussions surrounding the event, obscuring the reality and hindering efforts toward acknowledging the truth and achieving justice for the victims.
-
State-Sponsored Denial
Certain governments actively deny the characterization of the event as genocide, often framing the deaths as casualties of wartime conflict or justified actions against rebellious elements. This denial is typically enforced through official statements, historical revisionism in educational materials, and suppression of dissenting viewpoints. Such actions impede open historical inquiry and contribute to the perpetuation of misinformation regarding the events that transpired.
-
Historical Revisionism
Historical revisionism involves altering or misrepresenting historical facts to support a particular political or ideological agenda. In the context of the destruction of Armenians, this often entails minimizing the scale of the atrocities, questioning the intent behind the actions, and attributing blame to the Armenian population themselves. Such revisionism distorts the historical record and impedes accurate comprehension of the causes and consequences of the genocide.
-
Cultural and Societal Denial
Denial is frequently embedded within cultural narratives and societal norms, shaping public perception and influencing attitudes towards the event. This can manifest as a reluctance to discuss the topic openly, a dismissal of Armenian perspectives, or a perpetuation of stereotypes and prejudices. Such cultural and societal denial perpetuates a climate of silence and inhibits meaningful dialogue regarding the events and their lasting impact.
-
Implications for Reconciliation
Denial poses a significant barrier to reconciliation between affected groups and nations. Without acknowledgment of the past, it is difficult to move forward in a spirit of understanding and mutual respect. Denial undermines trust, exacerbates tensions, and prevents the development of a shared historical narrative. Addressing denial is therefore essential for promoting healing, fostering empathy, and preventing future atrocities.
These facets of denial directly impede a comprehensive understanding of the systematic destruction of Armenians during World War I, thereby obstructing an accurate application of the “armenian genocide ap world history definition.” Overcoming denial through education, open dialogue, and recognition of historical truths is critical for achieving justice, fostering reconciliation, and ensuring that the lessons of this tragedy are not forgotten. The perpetuation of denial serves as a significant impediment to historical accuracy and moral progress.
9. Historical Debates
Historical debates surrounding the systematic destruction of Armenians within the Ottoman Empire significantly shape the understanding and application of the “armenian genocide ap world history definition.” These debates often center on intent, casualty figures, and the applicability of the term ‘genocide’ itself, impacting both academic and public discourse.
-
Intent and Causation
A primary area of debate revolves around the intent of Ottoman authorities. Some argue that the deaths were unintended consequences of wartime conditions, disease, and logistical failures during forced deportations. Conversely, others maintain that the systematic nature of the deportations, massacres, and starvation points to a deliberate policy of extermination. The characterization of intent directly influences whether the events are classified as genocide under international law and the “armenian genocide ap world history definition.”
-
Casualty Figures
The precise number of Armenian deaths remains a point of contention. While many scholars estimate the death toll to be between 800,000 and 1.5 million, some sources propose lower figures, attributing discrepancies to differing methodologies and access to historical records. The varying casualty figures impact the perceived scale of the tragedy and contribute to arguments either supporting or challenging the application of the term ‘genocide.’ Accurately establishing the number of victims is crucial for understanding the gravity of the event.
-
Applicability of the Term ‘Genocide’
The application of the term ‘genocide,’ as defined by the 1948 United Nations Convention, is a central focus of historical debates. Some argue that while atrocities occurred, they do not meet the legal threshold for genocide due to a perceived lack of specific intent to eliminate the entire Armenian population. Others contend that the systematic targeting, deportation, and mass killing of Armenians clearly constitute genocide under international law, irrespective of whether the Ottoman government explicitly declared such an intent. The interpretation and application of the genocide definition is thus essential.
-
Recognition and Political Implications
The historical debates surrounding the “armenian genocide ap world history definition” also have significant political implications, influencing diplomatic relations between countries, particularly between Turkey and Armenia, as well as other nations. Recognition of the genocide by international bodies and individual countries often sparks diplomatic tensions, as denial remains a core element of Turkish foreign policy. These political considerations further complicate the objective assessment of historical evidence and the pursuit of justice for the victims.
These debates demonstrate the complexities involved in interpreting historical events and the challenges in achieving consensus on contested narratives. Examining the different perspectives and arguments within these debates is essential for AP World History students, fostering critical thinking skills and encouraging a nuanced understanding of the “armenian genocide ap world history definition” and its enduring legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the systematic destruction of Armenians within the Ottoman Empire, a crucial topic in AP World History. The following questions and answers provide clarity on key aspects, aiming for a comprehensive understanding.
Question 1: What is the AP World History definition of the Armenian Genocide?
The systematic extermination of approximately 1.5 million Armenians within the Ottoman Empire during World War I. Key components include forced deportations, massacres, and intentional starvation, driven by the Ottoman government’s nationalist policies.
Question 2: What were the primary causes of the Armenian Genocide?
The decline of the Ottoman Empire, the rise of Turkish nationalism, and the context of World War I are crucial factors. The Committee of Union and Progress (CUP) sought to create a homogenous Turkish state, viewing Armenians as a potential threat to national unity. Wartime conditions provided a pretext for implementing policies of forced removal and extermination.
Question 3: What were the key methods used in the systematic destruction of the Armenians?
Forced deportations were a primary method. Armenians were driven from their homes into the Syrian Desert without adequate food, water, or shelter. Massacres, often carried out by Ottoman soldiers and paramilitary groups, resulted in the deaths of countless civilians. Intentional starvation, through the denial of resources, also contributed to the high mortality rate.
Question 4: Why is the issue of intent so important in the context of the Armenian Genocide?
Intent is crucial for determining whether the events constitute genocide under international law. The 1948 UN Genocide Convention defines genocide as acts committed with the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group. Proving intent is necessary to establish legal and moral responsibility for the atrocities.
Question 5: What is the significance of studying the Armenian Genocide in AP World History?
Studying this event provides insight into the complexities of nationalism, imperialism, and state-sponsored violence. It allows students to analyze primary and secondary source evidence, develop critical thinking skills, and construct historical arguments regarding causation and impact. Additionally, it encourages reflection on human rights and the responsibility to prevent future atrocities.
Question 6: What is the ongoing debate surrounding the Armenian Genocide?
The primary debate centers on the characterization of the events as genocide. While many scholars and countries recognize it as such, the Turkish government maintains that the deaths were casualties of wartime conflict and rejects the claim of systematic extermination. This denial impacts diplomatic relations and complicates efforts towards reconciliation.
The information above provides a foundational understanding of the systematic destruction of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire. Continued study and critical analysis are essential for a comprehensive grasp of this significant historical event.
The following section will delve deeper into the event’s lasting impact on Armenian identity and international relations.
Navigating the Armenian Genocide
The following provides essential tips for effectively studying the systematic destruction of Armenians within the Ottoman Empire as defined for AP World History.
Tip 1: Emphasize Causation and Context:
The decline of the Ottoman Empire, the rise of Turkish nationalism, and the circumstances of World War I must be thoroughly understood. Explore how these factors converged to create an environment conducive to the atrocities. Focus on the specific policies and ideologies that motivated the Ottoman government’s actions.
Tip 2: Grasp the Systematic Nature of the Atrocities:
Recognize that the events were not random acts of violence but a planned and organized effort to eliminate the Armenian population. Analyze the specific methods employed, including forced deportations, massacres, and starvation, to appreciate the systematic nature of the destruction. Understanding the mechanisms of genocide is critical for analysis.
Tip 3: Understand the Terminology and Definitions:
Grasp the definition of genocide as outlined in the 1948 UN Genocide Convention. Analyze whether the events meet the criteria for genocide, considering the element of intent and the scale of the destruction. Clarifying this terminology is fundamental for accurate understanding.
Tip 4: Analyze Primary and Secondary Sources Critically:
Engage with diverse historical sources, including eyewitness accounts, official documents, and scholarly analyses. Evaluate the credibility and biases of each source to form an informed perspective. Examining multiple perspectives offers a nuanced understanding.
Tip 5: Be Aware of the Ongoing Debate and Denial:
Recognize the historical debates surrounding the events, particularly the denial of genocide by some governments and historical revisionism. Understand the political and social implications of this denial and its impact on reconciliation. Acknowledging these debates is crucial for informed analysis.
Tip 6: Focus on the Lasting Impact:
Explore the enduring consequences of the systematic destruction on the Armenian people and their culture. Consider the impact on Armenian identity, diaspora communities, and international relations. The legacy of the events is an essential aspect of the study.
These tips will enhance understanding of the systematic destruction of Armenians, supporting success in AP World History coursework and examinations.
The following section transitions to strategies for essay writing on this sensitive historical topic.
Conclusion
This examination of the “armenian genocide ap world history definition” has highlighted key aspects of this event, including the Ottoman context, the role of World War I, the systematic nature of the destruction, the targeting of the Armenian population, the employment of forced deportations, massacres, and starvation, as well as the complexities surrounding denial and ongoing historical debates. Comprehension of these facets is essential for a thorough understanding of the topic within the framework of AP World History.
The systematic destruction of Armenians serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked nationalism, wartime atrocities, and the importance of historical accuracy. Acknowledging this historical event and confronting its denial are crucial steps toward preventing future genocides and fostering a more just and equitable world. Continued study, education, and open dialogue are paramount.
