The Georgian coast was called Kolchida, and the eastern hilly terrains - Iberia. These were wealthy kingdoms, which is why they drew the attention of the Romans. In 66 B.C. they were conquered by Pompey and became a Roman protectorate. In 337 A.D., the king of Iberia Mirian III adopted Christianity as a state religion, which made Georgia the first (according to Georgians), or the second (according to Armenians) Christian state in the world.
Such a decision was not only spiritual but also political.
After her death, two Mongol expeditions completely devastated Georgia. The Mongols, devastated by the Georgian terrain, have devastated about 700 cities and settlements.
In the middle of the 18th century, with the help from Russia, Georgia was freed from the yoke of Muslims. However, this was not selfless. The Russians have thus strengthened their grip on the region, which allowed them to incorporate Kartli and Kachetia, and later on also West Georgia. Right after that, Russification followed and was repeatedly opposed against by the Georgians.
The beginning of the 20th century was a time of rebirth for the Georgians.
