Nakhimov Pavel Stepanovich born on July 5, 1802, in the small village of Gorodok, then Smolensk province. The father of little Pasha and his ten brothers and sisters was a retired major.
At the age of thirteen, Pavel entered the Naval Cadet Corps of St. Petersburg for the first time. Who, three years later, finishes sixth in the class.

After graduating from the cadet corps, Nakhimov received the rank of midshipman and was sent to serve in the Baltic Fleet. It was here that Pavel Stepanovich will meet Mikhail Lazarev, captain of the second rank and his future mentor. Together they will go on a trip around the world for 1084 days, during which Nakhimov will gain invaluable experience in navigating the expanses of the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

Pavel Stepanovich took his first part in battle in 1827, as a battery commander on board the famous ship Azov. It was with the active participation of Nakhimov that the Russian fleet defeated the Turkish fleet during the historical Battle of Navarino. For the courage and bravery shown in battle, Pavel Stepanovich was awarded the St. George Cross, received the rank of lieutenant commander and became the commander of the famous military frigate "Pallada" (also read about the modern sailing ship "Pallada").

In 1834, Nakhimov took command of the battleship Silistria, which very soon became the best ship of the entire Black Sea Fleet.

Another merit of Admiral Nakhimov was his victory in the Battle of Sinop, during which Pavel Stepanovich single-handedly prepared Sevastopol for defense. However, the victory came at a heavy price to the admiral - the true sailor was forced to sink more than one sailing ship of his native Black Sea Fleet in the Sevastopol Bay (among them was the famous sailing ship Twelve Apostles).

Admiral Pavel Stepanovich Nakhimov, died tragically on July 12, 1855. A few months before his death, Nakhimov, the only officer, was not afraid to wear epaulettes - a badge of honor that brought inevitable death to its owner. It was by using the epaulettes that the snipers shooting at the command of the Russian fleet found their target.

Pavel Nakhimov was born on July 23 in the village of Gorodok, Smolensk region. His family was from a poor family. In addition to him, the family also included three sisters and four brothers. At the age of 13, Nakhimov entered the Naval Cadet Corps in St. Petersburg. The rest of his brothers also devoted their lives to the fleet. For the first time in his life, Nakhimov went to sea three years after training, it was the brig Phoenix.

After graduating in 1818, Nakhimov received his first rank - midshipman and began serving in the Baltic Sea. Under the leadership of Admiral Lazarev, Nakhimov set off on a trip around the world on the frigate “Cruiser”, it was 1822.

War years of Nakhimov.

Pavel Stepanovich climbed the career ladder with a firm and confident gait. His military career began in 1827. Being a lieutenant on the battleship Azov, Nakhimov went on an attack on the Turkish flotilla and destroyed 5 enemy ships; this event took place in Navari Bay. After which he was promoted to rank. A year later, already as a captain-lieutenant, Pavel Stepanovich commanded the captured corvert “Navarin”, and on it he participated in the blockade of the Dardanelles (1826-1828). The year 1834 was marked by Nakhimov’s transfer to the Black Sea Fleet. There he was appointed to lead the battleship Silistria. In 1853, P.S. Nakhimov was already in the rank of high admiral.

The role of Nakhimov in the Crimean War.

In the hostilities between Russia and Turkey, P.S. Nakhimov played an important role. His activities began with the destruction of 9 enemy ships in Sinop Bay. In 1854, he was entrusted with leading the defense of Sevastopol. In the process of defense, he offers brilliant ideas, in particular, to sink enemy ships in the Sevastopol Bay, thereby cutting off their access to the city. Next, he is entrusted with the leadership of the ground forces. You can find out more about the Crimean War

Biography

Nakhimov and opponents

Geography

In philately

Pavel Stepanovich Nakhimov(June 23 (July 5), 1802, Gorodok village, Vyazemsky district, Smolensk province - June 30 (July 12), 1855, Sevastopol, Tauride province Russian Empire) - famous Russian admiral.

Biography

Born in the village of Gorodok, Vyazemsky district, Smolensk province, now the village of Nakhimovskoye, Kholm-Zhirkovsky district, Smolensk region. The noble family of the Nakhimovs traces its origins to Manuil Timofeevich Nakhimov, centurion of the Akhtyrsky Sloboda Cossack regiment, of whom the future admiral was the great-grandson. In the beginning. XX century historian V.L. Modzalevsky made an assumption about the origin of the Slobozhansky Nakhimovs from a certain Andrei Nakhimenko, who lived in Poltava in the 2nd half of the 17th century.

1813 - submits an application to the Naval Cadet Corps, but due to lack of places, he enters there only after 2 years.

1818 - graduated from the Naval Cadet Corps, began service in the Baltic.

Under the command of Lazarev, M.P. committed in 1821-1825. circumnavigation of the world on the frigate "Cruiser". During the voyage he was promoted to lieutenant.

1827 - distinguished himself in the Battle of Navarino, commanded a battery on the battleship Azov under the command of Lazarev M.P. as part of the squadron of Admiral L.P. Heyden; for distinction in the battle he was awarded the Order of St. on December 21, 1827. George IV class for No. 4141 and promoted to lieutenant commander.

1828 - took command of the corvette Navarin, a captured Turkish ship that previously bore the name Nassabih Sabah. During the Russian-Turkish War of 1828-29, commanding a corvette, he blocked the Dardanelles as part of the Russian squadron.

Since 1830, upon returning to Kronstadt, he has served in the Baltic, continuing to command the ship Navarin.

1831 - appointed commander of the frigate Pallada.

From 1834 he served in the Black Sea Fleet, commander of the battleship Silistria.

1845 - promoted to rear admiral and appointed commander of a brigade of ships.

1852 - Vice Admiral, appointed head of the naval division.

During the Crimean War of 1853-56, commanding a squadron of the Black Sea Fleet, Nakhimov, in stormy weather, discovered and blocked the main forces of the Turkish fleet in Sinop, and, having skillfully carried out the entire operation, defeated them on November 18 (November 30) in the Battle of Sinop in 1853.

During the Sevastopol defense of 1854-55. took a strategic approach to the defense of the city. In Sevastopol, although Nakhimov was listed as the commander of the fleet and port, from February 1855, after the sinking of the fleet, he defended, by appointment of the commander-in-chief, the southern part of the city, leading the defense with amazing energy and enjoying the greatest moral influence on soldiers and sailors, who called him “father.” -a benefactor."

On June 28 (July 10), 1855, during one of the detours of the advanced fortifications, he was mortally wounded by a bullet in the head on Malakhov Kurgan. Died June 30, 1855

Buried in the crypt of the Vladimir Cathedral in Sevastopol

Awards

• 1825 Order of St. Vladimir, 4th degree. For sailing on the frigate "Cruiser".
• 1827 Order of St. George, 4th degree. For the distinction shown in the Battle of Navarino.
• 1853 Order of St. Vladimir, 2nd degree. For the successful transfer of the 13th Division.
• 1853 Order of St. George, 2nd class. For the victory at Sinop.
• 1855 Order of the White Eagle. For distinction during the defense of Sevastopol.

Memory

In 1959, a monument to Admiral Nakhimov by sculptor N.V. Tomsky (bronze, granite) was erected in Sevastopol. It replaced the monument by Schroeder and Bilderling that stood at the Grafskaya pier, demolished in 1928 in accordance with the decree of the Soviet government “On the removal of monuments to the kings and their servants” (there was a statement in Soviet literature that the monument was destroyed by the Nazis during the occupation of Sevastopol, incorrect - a monument to Lenin was erected on the pedestal of the monument to Nakhimov in the early 1930s, and this monument was already destroyed in 1942-43).

During the Great Patriotic War, Nakhimov naval schools were created. In 1944, the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR established the Order of Nakhimov, 1st and 2nd degree, and the Nakhimov Medal.

In 1946, director Vsevolod Pudovkin shot the feature film “Admiral Nakhimov”. The role of Nakhimov in it was played by actor Alexei Dikiy (for this work, Dikiy received the Stalin Prize of the 1st degree and became a laureate of the Venice Film Festival in the category “Best Actor”).

Nakhimov and opponents

Crimean historian V.P. Dyulichev describes Nakhimov’s funeral in these words:

At the same time, there is an “Act on the mockery of the Anglo-French invaders over the graves of Russian admirals M.P. Lazarev, V.A. Kornilov, P.S. Nakhimov, V.I. Istomin,” dated April 23 (April 11, Art. Art.) 1858, compiled based on the results of an inspection of the tomb of the admirals.

Ships

Various warships and civilian vessels bore the name Nakhimov at different times:

• "Nakhimov" - Russian cargo steamer (sank 1897)
• "Admiral Nakhimov" - Russian armored cruiser (killed in the Battle of Tsushima 1905)
• "Chervona Ukraine" - former "Admiral Nakhimov", light cruiser of the "Svetlana" class (died on November 13, 1941 in Sevastopol.)
• "Admiral Nakhimov" - Soviet Sverdlov-class cruiser (scrapped 1961)
• Admiral Nakhimov - former Berlin III, Soviet passenger ship (sank in 1986)
• "Admiral Nakhimov" - Soviet anti-submarine cruiser (scrapped 1991)
• "Admiral Nakhimov" - former "Kalinin", nuclear-powered missile cruiser of Project 1144 (under modernization)

Geography

• Lake Nakhimovskoye in the Vyborg district of the Leningrad region.

Museums

• Youth center-museum named after Admiral Nakhimov in Smolensk
• Museum named after Nakhimov in the admiral’s homeland in Khmelit, Smolensk region.

Coins

• In 1992, the Central Bank of the Russian Federation issued a copper-nickel coin with a face value of 1 ruble, dedicated to the 190th anniversary of the birth of P.S. Nakhimov.
• In 2002, the Central Bank of the Russian Federation issued a silver coin (Ag 900) with a face value of 3 rubles, dedicated to the 200th anniversary of the birth of P.S. Nakhimov.

160 years ago, on July 12, 1855, Admiral Pavel Stepanovich Nakhimov died. The great Russian man fell heroically defending Sevastopol. Admiral Pavel Stepanovich Nakhimov occupies one of the most honorable places among the national heroes of the Russian people. He went down in Russian history as an outstanding naval commander, a worthy successor to the Russian glorious traditions of F.F. Ushakova, D.N. Senyavin and M.P. Lazarev and the hero of the defense of Sevastopol during the Eastern (Crimean) War. Then the united forces of Western civilization again came out against Russia, but all of their aggressive and predatory plans were thwarted by the heroic defense of Sevastopol.

From the biography

Pavel Stepanovich was born on June 23 (July 5), 1802 in the village of Gorodok, Vyazemsky district, Smolensk province. His father was a poor nobleman, Second Major Stepan Mikhailovich Nakhimov. Mother - Feodosia Ivanovna (nee Kozlovskaya). In 1818, he successfully graduated from the Naval Cadet Corps and was enlisted as a midshipman in the 2nd naval crew.

Already during his studies, as the famous Russian historian E.V. Tarle correctly noted, a curious character trait of Nakhimov was discovered, which was immediately noticed by his comrades, and then by colleagues and subordinates: “He did not know and did not want to know any life other than naval service.” he simply refused to admit to himself the possibility of existing not on a warship or in a military port. Due to lack of leisure and too much preoccupation with maritime interests, he forgot to fall in love, forgot to get married. He was a nautical fanatic, according to the unanimous opinion of eyewitnesses and observers.” In this, Nakhimov was like his glorious predecessor F.F. Ushakov.

Served in the Baltic Fleet. In his certification it was noted: “he is diligent and knowledgeable in his service; noble behavior, diligent in office”; “He performs his duties with zeal and efficiency.” He completed a three-year circumnavigation of the world (1822-1825) as a watch officer on the frigate “Cruiser” under the command of M.P. Lazarev. Lazarev quickly appreciated the abilities of the young and intelligent officer and became so attached to him that from that time on they practically never separated in their service. During the voyage, Pavel was promoted to lieutenant and received his first Order of St. Vladimir, 4th degree.

After returning from the voyage, Pavel became the battery commander on the battleship Azov, commanded by Lazarev. On this ship in the summer of 1827, he took part in the passage from the Baltic Sea to the Mediterranean, where he took part in hostilities against the Ottomans. He distinguished himself in the Battle of Navarino, where the combined fleet of Russia, France and England defeated the Turkish-Egyptian fleet. The flagship Azov, under the command of Lazarev, fought the best, destroying 5 Turkish ships, including the frigate of the commander of the Turkish fleet. Pavel was awarded the Order of St. George IV class and promoted to captain-lieutenant. An interesting fact is that in this battle on “Azov” all the future heroes of the defense of Sevastopol distinguished themselves - P. S. Nakhimov, V. A. Kornilov and V. I. Istomin.

In 1828, 24-year-old Nakhimov was the commander of the 16-gun corvette Navarin (Turkish “prize”). Nakhimov made the corvette a model ship for the squadron. The corvette took part in the blockade of the Dardanelles. Admiral Lazarev noted the young commander and, certifying him, noted that he was “an excellent and completely knowledgeable sea captain.” From 1830, having returned to the Baltic, he commanded the Navarin, and from 1831, the 52-gun frigate Pallada.

In 1834, at the request of Lazarev, who was then commander of the Black Sea Fleet, Nakhimov was transferred from the Baltic to the Black Sea. In 1836, Nakhimov received under his command the 84-gun battleship Silistria, which was built under his supervision. Nakhimov commanded this ship for 11 years, making Silistria an exemplary ship. His name became popular in the Black Sea Fleet. His colleagues respected him as a brilliant sailor, and the sailors called him “father.” In 1837 he was promoted to captain of the first rank. On the Silistria, Captain 1st Rank Nakhimov performed cruising voyages in the Black Sea and participated in the transportation of ground forces to the Black Sea shores of the Caucasus. The ship took part in 1840 in landing operations on the Caucasian coast.

In 1845, Nakhimov was promoted to rear admiral and appointed commander of a brigade of ships. Pavel Stepanovich became one of Admiral Lazarev's closest assistants in strengthening the Black Sea Fleet and increasing its combat effectiveness. Nakhimov continued and developed the traditions of Ushakov, Senyavin and Lazarev. People noted that it “serves 24 hours a day.” Demanding a lot from others, Pavel Stepanovich did not spare himself at all, showing the highest responsibility. Demanding demands on his subordinates were combined with concern for the sailors. He went into the smallest details of their lives, helped in word and deed, and saw ordinary sailors as people, not serfs. Pavel Stepanovich was a man with a capital M, ready to give his last penny to a person in need, to help an old man, woman or child. He did not have an extra ruble, giving every last bit to the sailors and their families.

Nakhimov demanded that officers treat their sailors humanely. He repeatedly repeated that the decisive role in battle belongs to the sailor. “It’s time for us to stop considering ourselves landowners,” said the Russian admiral, “and sailors as serfs. The sailor is the main engine on a warship, and we are only the springs that act on him. The sailor controls the sails, he also points the guns at the enemy; a sailor will rush to board if he does not look at service as a means to satisfy his ambition, and at his subordinates as a step for his own elevation. These are the ones we need to elevate, teach, arouse in them courage, heroism, if we are not selfish, but truly servants of the Fatherland...”

Lazarev and Nakhimov, like Kornilov and Istomin, were representatives of a school that demanded spiritual heights from an officer. They were opposed to laziness, drunkenness, gambling and all sybaritism among the command staff. They fought in every possible way against the “naval landowners,” who tried not to bother themselves too much with their affairs in the naval service. At the same time, Nakhimov very perspicaciously noted a trait of a significant part of the Russian upper class: “Many young officers surprise me: they lagged behind the Russians, did not stick to the French, and are also not like the British; They neglect their own, envy others, and do not understand their own benefits at all. This is no good!”

As a result, Nakhimov had a huge influence on the development of the Black Sea Fleet. His intelligence and exactingness strengthened the command staff. The sailors loved him, he spoke to them in their language. The devotion and love of the sailors for him reached unprecedented heights, which was perfectly demonstrated during the heroic defense of Sevastopol. Thus, Nakhimov’s daily appearance on the bastions of Sevastopol aroused incredible enthusiasm among the defenders. Tired, exhausted sailors and soldiers literally resurrected and were ready to repeat miracles. It was not for nothing that the admiral himself said that with our dashing people, by showing attention and love, you can do such things that are simply a miracle.

In the development of naval tactics, Nakhimov was a staunch supporter of decisive, attacking actions. In 1852, Nakhimov was promoted to vice admiral and appointed head of the 5th naval division. On the eve of the war with Turkey, Nakhimov's squadron, at the end of September - beginning of October 1853, carried out the transfer of the 13th Infantry Division from Sevastopol to Anakria within a week. This strengthened the defense of the Caucasus.

To prevent the landing of enemy troops, Nakhimov organized cruising from the Bosphorus to Batumi. Cruising took place along the Anatolian coast of the Ottoman Empire. October 4 (16), 1853 Porta declared war on Russia and began hostilities. Another Russian-Turkish war began, which soon grew into a war between Russia and a coalition of the strongest European powers. In this war, Nakhimov’s naval art and Russian spirit were fully demonstrated.

Having received news of the start of hostilities, Nakhimov immediately announced this to the squadron and gave an order, ending with the words: “I notify the commanders that, in the event of meeting an enemy superior to us in strength, I will attack him, being absolutely sure that each of us will do its job." In another order, Nakhimov noted: “With confidence in my commanders and officers and teams, I hope to accept the battle with honor... Without expanding into instructions, I will express my thought that, in my opinion, in naval affairs there is close distance from the enemy and mutual assistance each other has the best tactics.”

On November 18 (30), 1853, Nakhimov’s squadron destroyed the Turkish fleet in the Battle of Sinop (Battle of Sinop November 18 (30), 1853). Contemporaries highly appreciated the feat of the Russian sailors and their leader. The Russian emperor highly appreciated Nakhimov's victory. Admiral Nakhimov was granted the highest rescript from Nicholas I, which said: “By the extermination of the Turkish squadron at Sinop, you adorned the chronicle of the Russian fleet with a new victory, which will forever remain memorable in naval history. Fulfilling with true joy the decree of the statute, we grant you the Knight of St. George, II degree of the Grand Cross.”

Turkey's naval power was undermined. Nakhimov was pleased with the military results of the battle. The Black Sea Fleet brilliantly solved its main task: it eliminated the possibility of a Turkish landing on the coast of the Russian Caucasus and destroyed the Ottoman squadron, gaining complete dominance in the Black Sea. Enormous success was achieved with little blood and material losses. After a difficult search, battle and passage across the sea, all Russian ships successfully returned to Sevastopol. Nakhimov was pleased with the sailors and commanders; they held up superbly in the fierce battle.

However, Nakhimov was concerned about the political effect of the operation. He feared that the Sinop victory would cause the appearance of Anglo-French forces on the Black Sea, which would use all their might to destroy the combat-ready Black Sea Fleet. He had a presentiment that the real war was just beginning.
The West began to fear that Russia was implementing Catherine the Great’s plan to capture the straits and Constantinople. Russia's victory over Turkey opened up attractive geopolitical prospects in the Balkans, Mediterranean and Middle East. Russia was becoming a superpower. In order to prevent the complete defeat of Turkey, in March 1854 England and France declared war on Russia and sided with the Ottoman Empire. A wave of Russophobia is rising in Western Europe. Russian victories caused fear and hatred. Russia was shown as a huge giant who wants to crush the “unfortunate” Turkey. They say that “civilized Europe” must resist “Russian aggression”.

Heroic defense of Sevastopol

In 1854, the main efforts of the Anglo-French command were concentrated in the Black Sea region. The Western powers wanted to deprive Russia of its conquests in the Black Sea region and the Baltic states. The main blow was delivered in Crimea. The attention of the allies was attracted by the main base of the Black Sea Fleet - Sevastopol. In September 1854, a huge Anglo-French-Turkish fleet landed an expeditionary army in the Evpatoria region.

The Russian army, inferior in number to the enemy, under the command of Prince A.S. Menshikova was defeated at the river in September. Alma then went first to Sevastopol. But then, fearing that the enemy would block and destroy his army, which would lead to the fall of Crimea, and also in order to maintain the possibility of maneuver, Menshikov left Sevastopol.

At this critical moment, the defense of the city was led by Kornilov and Nakhimov. The two admirals became the soul of the city's defense. Pavel Stepanovich was a kind of “hero admiral”, more of a brilliant naval commander than an economic manager, and Kornilov showed more administrative abilities for organizing the economy. Therefore, Nakhimov, although he had seniority in service, without the slightest hesitation in these terrible days, transferred the issues of organizing defense to Kornilov, helping him in every possible way. Sevastopol had ships and coastal batteries for defense from the sea, but the city was extremely poorly defended from land. The city was not fortified before the war. Therefore, sailors and soldiers under the command of Kornilov, Nakhimov and Totleben had to do titanic work to create a strong defense of Sevastopol. They did everything possible and impossible to prepare the city for a difficult fight. They worked day and night.

As a result, when the Allies approached Sevastopol, where previously there were only separate fortifications, not connected to each other and having large, almost unprotected gaps, a continuous defensive line was equipped. New artillery positions, dugouts, shelters and communication lines were erected. It turned out that the Anglo-French command missed the moment for an open assault on Sevastopol, and was forced to begin siege operations. Instead of a quick victory, the Allies were forced to spend time and all their strength fighting the garrison of Sevastopol. The 349-day defense of Sevastopol captured all the attention and forces of the allies, which allowed Russia to exit the war without much loss.

After Kornilov died during the first bombardment of the city on October 5 (17), 1854, Pavel Stepanovich Nakhimov almost completely took over his mission. Formally, the defense of the city was commanded by the head of the Sevastopol garrison, General Osten-Sacken, but in fact Nakhimov led the defense of Sevastopol. In February 1855, Nakhimov was officially appointed commander of the Sevastopol port and military governor of the city. On March 27 (April 8) he was promoted to admiral.

Pavel Nakhimov correctly assessed the strategic importance of the defense of the Sevastopol fortress as the main base of the Black Sea Fleet. “Having Sevastopol,” the admiral wrote, “we will have a fleet..., and without Sevastopol it is impossible to have a fleet on the Black Sea: this axiom clearly proves the need to decide on all sorts of measures to block the entrance of enemy ships to the roadstead and thereby save Sevastopol.”

On June 6 (18), 1855, another attack began. The fiercest battles took place on Malakhov Kurgan. Russian troops repelled the assault on Sevastopol. Joy swept the city and all of Russia, the opponents were greatly depressed. However, June 1855 brought the defenders of Sevastopol not only the joy of victory, but also two misfortunes. Totleben was seriously wounded and taken away from Sevastopol. Everyone was afraid that the brilliant military engineer would die, but fate preserved him. The defenders of the fortress faced an even more crushing blow.

Nakhimov miraculously survived the assault on June 6 (18). During the battle, he was in the most dangerous place - on the Malakhov Kurgan. When the French again broke through to the positions, many commanders had fallen, soldiers huddled together, Nakhimov and his two adjutants commanded: “With bayonets!” and the Russian soldiers cheered up and knocked out the enemy. As a result, on this day Nakhimov completed the work of saving the Malakhov Kurgan, begun by Khrulev.

It should be noted that, apparently, Nakhimov understood the doom of Sevastopol. He constantly took risks. One of Nakhimov’s bravest associates in the defense of Sevastopol, Prince V.I. Vasilchikov (Nakhimov himself said: “Take care of Totleben, there is no one to replace him, but I, sir!” “It doesn’t matter how they kill you or me, but it will be a pity , if something happens to Totleben or Vasilchikov!”), who had been observing the admiral for a long time, noted: “There is no doubt that Pavel Stepanovich did not want to survive the fall of Sevastopol. Remaining one of the associates of the former valor of the fleet, he sought death and recently began, more than ever, to exhibit himself at banquets, on the towers of bastions, attracting the attention of the French and English riflemen with his numerous retinue and the shine of his epaulets...”

More than once Nakhimov was literally taken by force from the front line. So, on the Kamchatka lunette, before his fall, in the end, the sailors, without asking, grabbed Nakhimov and carried him out in their arms, because he hesitated and after a few seconds they would have killed him or would have captured him. The admiral usually left his retinue behind the parapet, and he himself went out to a prominent place and stood there for a long time, looking at the enemy batteries, “waiting for lead,” as the same Vasilchikov put it.

When one of the sailors, tired and exhausted, asked to rest, Nakhimov raised his morale with these words: “What, sir! Do you want to resign from your post? You must die here, you are a sentry, sir, there is no shift for you, sir, and there will never be one! We're all going to die here; remember that you are a Black Sea sailor, sir, and that you are defending your native city! We will give the enemy only our corpses and ruins, we cannot leave here, sir! I have already chosen my grave, my grave is already ready, sir! I will lie down next to my boss, Mikhail Petrovich Lazarev, and Kornilov and Istomin are already lying there: they have fulfilled their duty, we need to fulfill it too!”

On June 28 (July 10), at 4 a.m., the enemy began a fierce shelling of the 3rd bastion. Nakhimov rode on horseback with two adjutants to inspect the 3rd and 4th bastions to support their defenders. Arriving at Malakhov Kurgan, he watched the progress of the battle through a telescope and encouraged the soldiers and commanders. As usual, Nakhimov did not heed any warning. And this time everything ended badly.

Several bullets passed near the admiral. “They shoot quite accurately today,” said Nakhimov, and at that moment another shot rang out. Nakhimov fell to the ground without a single groan, as if knocked down. The bullet hit the face, pierced the skull and exited at the back of the head. Without regaining consciousness, Nakhimov died two days later. Sevastopol lost the “soul of defense,” and the Russian people lost one of their most glorious sons.

Alexander Samsonov

Admiral Pavel Stepanovich Nakhimov occupies one of the honorable places in the galaxy of national heroes of whom our people are proud. He went down in Russian history as an outstanding naval commander, who wrote more than one bright page in the heroic chronicle of the Russian fleet. P.S. Nakhimov was a worthy successor to F.F. Ushakova, D.N. Senyavin and M.P. Lazarev, the successor of their glorious traditions.

Nakhimov served honestly and impeccably in the Russian fleet for 40 years and completed 34 naval campaigns. Lazarev said about him that he serves as an example for all ship commanders, “he is pure in soul and loves the sea.”

Pavel Stepanovich was born on June 23 (July 5), 1802 in the village. Town of Vyazemsky district, Smolensk province. Having successfully graduated from the Naval Cadet Corps in 1818, he was promoted to midshipman and enlisted in the 2nd naval crew. He served with his crew in the Baltic. In his certification it was written: “he is diligent and knowledgeable in his service; noble behavior, diligent in office”; “He performs his duties with zeal and efficiency.”

“An excellent and completely knowledgeable sea captain”

In 1822, Lieutenant Nakhimov went on a three-year circumnavigation of the world as a watch officer on the frigate “Cruiser” under the command of M.P. Lazarev. Contemporaries argue that such an appointment of a person without patronage at a time when circumnavigation of the world was extremely rare serves as proof that the young midshipman attracted special attention to himself. For this voyage he received his first Order of St. Vladimir, 4th degree, and the rank of lieutenant.

After returning from the voyage, Nakhimov was appointed battery commander on the 74-gun ship Azov, which was under construction. On this ship in the summer of 1827, he took part in the passage from the Baltic Sea to the Mediterranean, where he gained experience in the combat operations of the Russian, English and French squadrons against the Turkish fleet in the Battle of Navarino on October 5 (17), 1827. No one in the allied fleet fought with such crushing energy as the battleship Azov under the command of Lazarev. For military exploits, the battleship Azov was awarded the stern St. George flag and pennant for the first time in the Russian Navy. For his distinction in battle, Nakhimov was nominated to the rank of captain-lieutenant and the Order of St. George, 4th degree, and was also awarded the Greek Order of the Savior.

In 1828, 24-year-old Nakhimov was the commander of the 16-gun corvette Navarin, on which he took part in the blockade of the Dardanelles as part of the Russian squadron. Certifying the commander of the Navarin, Lazarev noted that he was “an excellent and completely knowledgeable sea captain.”

In 1830, Nakhimov was assigned to the frigate Pallada. “The commander of this corvette,” L.P. reported to St. Petersburg. Heyden, “I appointed Lieutenant-Commander Nakhimov as an officer who, based on my known zeal and ability for naval service, will soon bring him to the best naval order and make him, so to speak, the decoration of the squadron entrusted to me.”

In 1834, at the request of Lazarev, who was then commander of the Black Sea Fleet, Nakhimov was transferred to serve in the Black Sea. He was appointed commander of the 41st naval crew with promotion to captain of the 2nd rank, and two years later - commander of the battleship Silistria.

On the Silistria, Captain 1st Rank Nakhimov performed cruising voyages in the Black Sea and participated in the transportation of ground forces to the Black Sea shores of the Caucasus.

In 1845, after being promoted to rear admiral, Nakhimov commanded one of the combat formations of the Black Sea Fleet, which made practical voyages every year. Pavel Stepanovich was one of Admiral Lazarev’s closest assistants in strengthening the Black Sea Fleet and increasing its combat effectiveness.

Nakhimov’s education system was based on deep respect for the personality of the sailor

In the navy they said about him that he “serves 24 hours a day.” Nakhimov demanded a high level of combat training, cohesion and discipline from ship crews. However, Nakhimov’s exactingness was combined with concern for his subordinates. He went into the smallest details of their lives, helping in word and deed. Officers and sailors did not hesitate to come to Nakhimov for advice. This attitude towards people naturally attracted people's hearts to him.

Nakhimov’s education system was based on deep respect for the sailor’s personality and firm confidence in his high combat and moral qualities. Nakhimov demanded that officers treat their sailors humanely. He repeatedly repeated that the decisive role in battle belongs to the sailor. “It’s time for us to stop considering ourselves landowners,” said Nakhimov, “and sailors as serfs. The sailor is the main engine on a warship, and we are only the springs that act on him. The sailor controls the sails, he also points the guns at the enemy; a sailor will rush to board if he does not look at service as a means to satisfy his ambition, and at his subordinates as a step for his own elevation. These are the ones we need to elevate, teach, arouse in them courage, heroism, if we are not selfish, but truly servants of the Fatherland...”

Demanding of his subordinates, Nakhimov was even more demanding of himself and served as an example of tireless devotion to duty.

At this time, Nakhimov already enjoyed well-deserved authority in naval affairs. He took part in the drafting of the Maritime Charter, a set of maritime signals and other documents. His statements about the ways of further development of naval tactics became widespread. Attaching great importance to achieving surprise in battle, he was a staunch supporter of decisive action.

In 1852, Nakhimov was promoted to vice admiral and appointed head of the 5th naval division, which included half of the entire combat and auxiliary personnel of the Black Sea Fleet.

Naval art of Nakhimov. Battle of Sinop

By the 50s. XIX century The political situation between European powers in the Middle East has worsened. The colonial expansion of England and France in this region intensified. With the strengthening of the positions of England and France in the Ottoman Empire, a real danger arose that the Bosporus and Dardanelles would come under their control. Thus, during the struggle of European powers for Middle Eastern markets, the problem of the Black Sea Straits acquired special significance.

In order to start a war, in September 1853, the Anglo-French fleet passed through the Dardanelles and stood at the Bosphorus. This was an open challenge to Russia. In the fall of 1853, it became known about the British intention to organize a Turkish offensive from Transcaucasia. To implement this plan, preparations were being made for the transfer of Turkish troops by sea to the eastern coast of the Black Sea. Given the current situation, the Black Sea Fleet was in a state of combat readiness. He was tasked with monitoring enemy actions in the Black Sea and preventing the transfer of Turkish troops to the Caucasus.

On the other hand, it was necessary to strengthen the defense of the Black Sea coastline and secretly transfer military forces to the Anakria region. This operation was successfully solved by Nakhimov.

At the end of September - beginning of October 1853, a squadron consisting of 12 battleships, 2 frigates, 2 corvettes, 4 steam frigates, 3 steamships and 11 sailing transports under the command of Nakhimov carried out the transfer of the 13th Infantry Division from Sevastopol to Anakria for 7 days with two artillery batteries, a convoy, food and ammunition. In total, 16,393 people, 824 horses, 16 guns and a large amount of ammunition were transported. The operation was carried out in bad weather on rowing ships and showed the high combat training of the sailors trained by Nakhimov. This was the first event to combat the enemy landing force being prepared by Turkey for landing in the Caucasus.

Nakhimov “for the excellent diligent service, knowledge, experience and tireless activity” shown during the operation, was awarded the Order of St. Vladimir, 2nd degree.

Another measure to prepare for war was the organization of continuous cruising from the Bosphorus to Batumi. Cruising was carried out along the Anatolian coast and actually took place in combat conditions, making it difficult for the enemy to suddenly appear at sea. In addition, it contributed to increasing the combat training of ship personnel.

On October 4 (16), 1853, Turkey declared war on Russia and began military operations on the Danube and in Transcaucasia. The Crimean (Eastern) War began. By this time, Vice Admiral Nakhimov commanded a squadron of the Black Sea Fleet. In this war, Nakhimov’s military talent and naval skill were fully demonstrated. The war found him with a squadron at sea off the Anatolian coast.

Having received news of the start of hostilities, Nakhimov immediately announced this to the squadron, which consisted of five 84-gun ships, and gave an order ending with the words: “I notify the commanders that, in the event of meeting with an enemy superior to us in strength, I will attack him.” , being absolutely sure that each of us will do our part.”

In another order written on the same day, Nakhimov wrote: “With confidence in my commanders and officers and teams, I hope to accept the battle with honor... Without going into instructions, I will express my thought that, in my opinion, in naval affairs close distance from the enemy and mutual assistance to each other is the best tactic.”

Having defeated the enemy fleet in the Battle of Sinop on November 18 (30), 1853, the Russian squadron, despite the existing damage, returned to Sevastopol in stormy weather conditions. Admiral Kornilov called this transition of the squadron the second victory of Nakhimov’s squadron.

Contemporaries highly appreciated the feat of the Russian sailors and their naval commander. Nakhimov was granted the highest rescript from Nicholas I, which said: “By the extermination of the Turkish squadron at Sinop, you adorned the chronicle of the Russian fleet with a new victory, which will forever remain memorable in naval history. Fulfilling with true joy the decree of the statute, we grant you the Knight of St. George, II degree of the Grand Cross.” Nakhimov’s naval skill was so highly appreciated.

Federal Law No. 32-FZ of March 13, 1995, Victory Day of the Russian squadron under the command of P.S. Nakhimov in the Battle of Sinop was declared the Day of Military Glory of Russia.

Battle of Sinop. 1853

The victory of the Russian fleet at Sinop and the defeat of Turkish troops in Transcaucasia at Akhaltsikhe and Bashkadyklar undermined Turkey's military power. To prevent its complete defeat, in March 1854 England and France declared war on Russia and sided with Turkey.

Heroic defense of Sevastopol

In 1854, the main efforts of the Anglo-French command were concentrated in the Black Sea region. The Allies intended to deliver the main blow to Sevastopol, which had great strategic importance as the base of the Russian Black Sea Fleet. In September 1854, the Anglo-French-Turkish fleet, consisting of 89 warships and 300 transports, approached Yevpatoria and landed an army of 62,000 with 134 field and 114 siege guns.

At that time, there was a 35,000-strong army in Crimea under the command of Prince A.S. Menshikov, who was defeated at the river in September. Alma then went first to Sevastopol. But then, fearing that the enemy would cut him off from the central regions of Russia, and also in order to have freedom of maneuver and the ability to threaten the enemy’s flank and rear, Menshikov withdrew his troops to Bakhchisarai.

After the departure of the field army, the total number of troops in the Sevastopol garrison was slightly more than 22 thousand people. The Black Sea Fleet consisted of 50 ships, including 14 battleships and 7 frigates. The fleet included 11 paddle steamers and not a single screw steamer. Direct leadership of the defense of the northern side of the city was entrusted to Kornilov, and the southern side - to Nakhimov.

The role of Pavel Stepanovich in the heroic defense of Sevastopol was enormous. He was one of its main leaders. On the South Side, through the efforts of P.S. Nakhimova, V.A. Kornilov and E.I. Totleben a line of fortifications was erected. In order to prevent the enemy from breaking through to the Sevastopol roadstead, by order of Nakhimov, on the night of September 10-11 (22-23), 7 ships were sunk at the entrance to the bay, and their personnel were sent to strengthen the city’s garrison. On the eve of this event, Nakhimov issued an order that said: “The enemy is approaching a city in which there is very little garrison. By necessity, I find myself forced to scuttle the ships of the squadron entrusted to me, and attach the remaining crews on them, with boarding weapons, to the garrison. I am confident in the commanders, officers and teams that each of them will fight like a hero.”

Work was in full swing everywhere. Nakhimov, like Kornilov, could be seen everywhere, day and night. Without fear or sleep, without sparing their strength, they prepared the city for defense. As a result of the selfless work of the defenders of Sevastopol from land, the city was surrounded by a line of fortifications.

In Sevastopol, a deeply layered defense was created in a short time, which made it possible to effectively use all forces and means, including naval and coastal artillery.

At the beginning of October, the enemy began the first bombardment of Sevastopol and its fortifications from land and sea. At the same time, the enemy fleet attempted to break into the bay. The return fire of the Russian batteries caused significant damage to the siege artillery and enemy ships. After a five-hour bombardment, the enemy fleet, having received heavy damage, moved away from Sevastopol and did not participate in further hostilities. The enemy's plan was foiled. The enemy did not dare to storm and began to besiege the city.

During the bombardment of Sevastopol, Russian troops suffered significant losses, and one of them was the death of Vice Admiral V.A. at a combat post. Kornilov.

After Kornilov’s death, the entire burden of leading the defense fell on Nakhimov’s shoulders. In November, Nakhimov assumed the duties of assistant to the chief of the Sevastopol garrison, General D.E. Osten-Sackena. In February 1855, Nakhimov was officially appointed commander of the Sevastopol port and military governor of the city. On March 27 (April 8) he was promoted to admiral.

Pavel Stepanovich Nakhimov. 1855

P.S. Nakhimov correctly assessed the strategic importance of the defense of Sevastopol as the main base of the Black Sea Fleet. “Having Sevastopol,” he wrote, “we will have a fleet..., and without Sevastopol it is impossible to have a fleet on the Black Sea: this axiom clearly proves the need to decide on all sorts of measures to block the entrance of enemy ships to the roadstead and thereby save Sevastopol.” Realizing this, Nakhimov took all measures to concentrate the forces of the army and navy here and thwarted the enemy’s plans to capture the city with one blow.

From the ships that were in the bay, Nakhimov formed a special brigade that guarded the entrance to it. Steam frigates, which not only guarded the bay from enemy penetration, but also left Sevastopol to fire at enemy ship bases, were especially active. So, after one of such attacks of steam frigates on the enemy, Nakhimov wrote: “The brave sortie of our steamers reminded the enemies that our ships, although disarmed, would boil with life at the first order; that, while shooting accurately on the bastions, we have not lost the habit of shooting on pitch; that, while building slender bastions for the defense of Sevastopol, we are only waiting for an opportunity to show how firmly we remember the lessons of the late Admiral Lazarev.”

Under the leadership of Nakhimov, work was carried out to strengthen defensive lines, build additional coastal batteries and protect them, and combat battalions of sailors were formed. He knew everything that was happening on the bastions: who needed shells, where reinforcements needed to be sent, and always provided assistance on time. He received several shell shocks and was unwell, but, overcoming his ill health, he invariably traveled around the positions. He spent the night wherever he had to, slept, often without undressing, and turned his apartment into an infirmary. He enjoyed enormous authority and love among the defenders of Sevastopol. Nakhimov was everywhere, inspiring with his example, helping in word and deed. When his tall, somewhat stooped figure appeared on the streets of the city, the sailors walking towards him somehow stretched out in a special way and looked with adoration at the thoughtful, sometimes even stern, but kind face of the admiral. “Guys, there’s our dad, our dear Pavel Stepanovich is coming,” the sailors said to each other.

Hero of Sinop, favorite of the sailors and the entire population of Sevastopol, an ardent patriot of his Motherland, Nakhimov was the soul of the heroic defense of Sevastopol. Like Suvorov and Kutuzov in the army, Ushakov and Lazarev in the navy, Nakhimov found a way to the heart of a simple Russian warrior. In his order dated April 12 (24), 1855, he wrote: “Sailors, need I tell you about your exploits in defense of your native Sevastopol and the fleet... I have been proud of you since childhood. We will defend Sevastopol." The residents of Sevastopol heroically defended their city. “There is no change for you and there never will be! - said Nakhimov. - Remember that you are a Black Sea sailor, sir, and that you are defending your native city. We can’t leave here!”

On June 16 (18), 1855, another attack on the city began. The main direction of attack was Malakhov Kurgan. The enemy assault was repelled in all directions. Despite this, the situation of the Sevastopol residents remained difficult, their strength was dwindling.

Defense of Sevastopol. Malakhov Kurgan

On June 28 (July 10), at 4 a.m., a fierce bombardment of the 3rd bastion began. Nakhimov went to Malakhov Kurgan to support and inspire its defenders. Arriving at Malakhov Kurgan, he watched the progress of the battle through a telescope. At this time, he was mortally wounded by a bullet in the temple and, without regaining consciousness, died two days later. With his death, Sevastopol lost the “soul of defense”, the Russian fleet - a talented naval commander, and the Russian people - one of their glorious sons.

Pavel Stepanovich Nakhimov was buried in Sevastopol, in the Vladimir Cathedral, next to M.P. Lazarev, V.A. Kornilov and V.I. Istomin. The people of Sevastopol took this loss seriously. “Everyone was in tears, the crowd of people was so great that along the entire route of the procession to the crypts where Lazarev, Kornilov and Istomin rest, the destroyed roofs and collapsed walls were closely covered with people of all classes,” an eyewitness reported to St. Petersburg. And this was Nakhimov’s imperishable victory - in popular recognition, in popular love, in the silent sorrow of burial.

The military and naval activities of Pavel Stepanovich Nakhimov are highly appreciated by his descendants. During the Great Patriotic War, by the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR dated March 3, 1944, the Order of Nakhimov, 1st and 2nd degree, and the Nakhimov Medal were established. The Order was received by officers of the Navy for outstanding success in the development, conduct and support of naval operations, as a result of which an offensive operation of the enemy was repelled or active operations of the fleet were ensured, significant damage was inflicted on the enemy and their forces were preserved.

Nakhimov’s name is immortalized in the names of naval educational institutions, warships, schools and squares. The Russian people sacredly honor the memory of the great naval commander.

Material prepared by the Research Institute (military history)
Military Academy of the General Staff
Armed Forces of the Russian Federation