 From 1924 to 1945, there was a Shapsug National District which was abolished during the time of repressions.Historically the Shapsug controlled the ports of Dzhubga () and Tuapse to mountain Gorges, and they consisted of 5 aristocratic families and 81 () free clans, and were classified as one of the tree democratic Adyghe tribes, and were known to have supported the other Adyghe tribes in their struggle against the Crimean Khanate.During the Caucasian War, they were one of the most stubborn enemies of Imperial Russia, joining Shamil's alliance (which would last until 1859).