Azerbaijan being Iran's neighbourhood country, has a close connection with the Baha'I faith since the time of the Bab. The impact of the teachings of the Bab was seen in Azerbaijan, as much as it was witnessed in Iran. Since 1850, small Baha'i communities established themselves in different parts of Azerbaijan, namely Ordubad, Baku, Balakhani, Ganja, Barda, Goychay, Salyan, Khilli (present day Neftchala), Shaki, Shamakhy, etc. Soon, the community of Baku counted the largest number of faithful in the region and in 1860 obtained official acknowledgement from the authorities. These small communities also recognized the newly proclaimed position of Baha'u'llah. Soon there was more public awareness and some favour from leaders of the wider community. At the same time, the Baha'i community of Baku broadened its communication with other Baha'is in Russia, Turkey and Ashkhabad and did much work printing materials in Turkish. Around 1902, relations with the gover
