The Rutul Federation or The Rutul Free Society is a Rutul state located in Southern Dagestan and was formed in the 7th century. Rutuli experienced strong cultural and linguistic pressure from Azerbaijanis and to a lesser extent from Lezghins. Before the annexation by the Russian Empire, the Rutuls made a federation of multiple rural communities which were known as the "Rutul Magal". This Magal was ruled by a Bek, a permanent leader. These Beks address important issues and are required to convene to a popular assembly.