Cheremis

Cheremis is a historical term formerly used to refer to the Mari people, an ethnic group indigenous to Russia. The Mari predominantly inhabit the Mari El Republic and surrounding regions in the Volga Federal District. The term "Cheremis" is of Finno-Ugric origin and was commonly used by outsiders, particularly Russians, during the Tsarist and early Soviet periods.

The Mari people have a rich cultural heritage, including their own language, Mari, which belongs to the Finno-Volgaic branch of the Uralic language family. Historically, they have maintained distinct traditions, a unique belief system that often incorporates elements of nature worship, and a vibrant folk art. Their traditional livelihoods have included agriculture, hunting, and fishing.

In the 20th century, particularly after the establishment of the Mari El Autonomous Oblast in 1920, the Mari people increasingly advocated for the use of their ethnonym, "Mari." This shift was part of a broader movement among various ethnic groups in the Soviet Union to reclaim and assert their own identities. Consequently, the term "Mari" is now the preferred and officially recognized name for this ethnic group. The term "Cheremis" is now considered outdated and potentially pejorative by many Mari people.