short biography
Hero of the Sevastopol Defense.
Born June 23 (July 5), 1802 in the village. A town (modern village of Nakhimovskoye) in the Vyazemsky district of the Smolensk province in a large noble family (eleven children).
Son of retired major S.M. Nakhimov. In 1815–1818 he studied at the Naval Cadet Corps in St. Petersburg; in 1817, among the best midshipmen on the brig Phoenix, he sailed to the shores of Sweden and Denmark. Having graduated from the Corps in January 1818, sixth on the list of graduates, in February he received the rank of midshipman and was assigned to the 2nd naval crew of the St. Petersburg port.
In 1821 he was transferred to the 23rd naval crew of the Baltic Fleet. In 1822–1825, as a watch officer, he participated in M.P. Lazarev’s round-the-world voyage on the frigate “Cruiser”; upon his return he was awarded the Order of St. Vladimir, 4th degree.
From 1826 he served under M.P. Lazarev on the battleship Azov. In the summer of 1827, he made the transition from Kronstadt to the Mediterranean Sea on board; in the Battle of Navarino on October 8 (20), 1827 between the combined Anglo-Franco-Russian squadron and the Turkish-Egyptian fleet, he commanded a battery on the Azov; in December 1827 he received the Order of St. George, 4th degree and the rank of captain-lieutenant.
In August 1828 he became the commander of a captured Turkish corvette, renamed Navarin. During the Russian-Turkish War of 1828–1829, he took part in the blockade of the Dardanelles by the Russian fleet. In December 1831 he was appointed commander of the frigate "Pallada" of the Baltic squadron of F.F. Bellingshausen. In January 1834, at the request of M.P. Lazarev, he was transferred to the Black Sea Fleet; became commander of the battleship Silistria.
In August 1834 he was promoted to captain of the 2nd rank, and in December 1834 to the rank of 1st rank. He turned the Silistria into a model ship. In 1838–1839 he underwent treatment abroad. In 1840 he took part in landing operations against Shamil’s detachments near Tuapse and Psezuape (Lazarevskaya) on the eastern coast of the Black Sea.
In April 1842, for his diligent service, he was awarded the Order of St. Vladimir, 3rd degree. In July 1844 he helped the Golovinsky fort repel an attack by the highlanders. In September 1845 he was promoted to rear admiral and headed the 1st brigade of the 4th naval division of the Black Sea Fleet; For success in combat training of crews, he was awarded the Order of St. Anne, 1st degree.
From March 1852 he commanded the 5th naval division; in October he received the rank of vice admiral. Before the Crimean War of 1853–1856, already being the commander of the 1st Black Sea Squadron, in September 1853 he carried out the operational transfer of the 3rd Infantry Division from Crimea to the Caucasus.
With the outbreak of hostilities in October 1853, she cruised off the coast of Asia Minor. On November 18 (30), without waiting for the approach of the detachment of steam frigates V.A. Kornilov, he attacked and destroyed the twice superior forces of the Turkish fleet in Sinop Bay, without losing a single ship (the last battle in the history of the Russian sailing fleet); awarded the Order of St. George, 2nd degree.
In December he was appointed commander of the squadron that defended the Sevastopol raid. After the landing of the Anglo-French-Turkish squadron in the Crimea on September 2–6 (14–18), 1854, together with V.A. Kornilov, he led the preparation of Sevastopol for defense; formed battalions from coastal and naval commands; was forced to agree to the sinking of part of the sailing ships of the Black Sea Fleet in the Sevastopol Bay. On September 11 (23), he was appointed chief of defense of the South Side, becoming the main assistant to V.A. Kornilov.
Successfully repelled the first assault on the city on October 5 (17). After the death of V.A. Kornilov, he headed, together with V.I. Istomin and E.I. Totleben, the entire defense of Sevastopol. February 25 (March 9), 1855 appointed commander of the Sevastopol port and temporary military governor of the city; in March he was promoted to admiral. Under his leadership, Sevastopol heroically repelled Allied attacks for nine months. Thanks to his energy, the defense acquired an active character: he organized sorties, waged counter-battery and mine warfare, erected new fortifications, mobilized the civilian population to defend the city, and personally toured forward positions, inspiring the troops.
Awarded the Order of the White Eagle.
On June 28 (July 10), 1855, he was mortally wounded by a bullet in the temple on the Kornilovsky bastion of the Malakhov Kurgan. He died on June 30 (July 12) without regaining consciousness. The death of P.S. Nakhimov predetermined the imminent fall of Sevastopol. He was buried in the admiral's tomb of the Naval Cathedral of St. Vladimir in Sevastopol next to V.A. Kornilov and V.I. Istomin.
P.S. Nakhimov had great military talents; He was distinguished by courage and originality of tactical decisions, personal courage and composure. In battle, he tried to avoid losses as much as possible. He attached great importance to the combat training of sailors and officers. He was popular in the navy.
During the Great Patriotic War, on March 3, 1944, the Nakhimov Medal and the Order of Nakhimov, 1st and 2nd degrees, were approved.
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 Bosporus. 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 both 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 particularly 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
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
Nakhimov Pavel Stepanovich (1802-1855)
Among the remarkable Russian naval commanders of the past, P.S. occupies an exceptional place. Nakhimov, whose name is associated with the heroic struggle of Russian soldiers and sailors against the Turkish and Anglo-French invaders. Nakhimov was a vivid embodiment of the national military genius, a representative of the combat school of Russian military art.
Pavel Stepanovich Nakhimov was born on July 6 (June 23) in the village of Gorodok, Vyazemsky district, Smolensk province (now the village of Nakhimovskoye, Andreevsky district, Smolensk region). After graduating from the Naval Cadet Corps in St. Petersburg (1818), he served in the Baltic Fleet. In 1822-1825. circumnavigated the world as a watch officer on the frigate "Cruiser".
In 1827 he took part in the naval battle of Navarino, commanding a battery on the battleship Azov. In this battle, along with Lieutenant P.S. Future naval commanders Midshipman V.A. acted skillfully and bravely with Nakhimov. Kornilov and midshipman V.I. Istomin. The defeat of the Turkish fleet in the naval battle of Navarino significantly weakened the naval forces of Turkey, contributed to the national liberation struggle of the Greek people, and the victory of Russia in the Russian-Turkish war of 1828-1829. During this war, Nakhimov then commanded the corvette Navarin and participated in the blockade of the Dardanelles. In 1829, after returning to Kronstadt, Nakhimov took charge of the frigate Pallada. In 1834, he was again transferred to the Black Sea Fleet and appointed commander of the battleship "Silistria", which, in terms of the organization of service, combat training and maneuvering, was recognized as the best ship of the Black Sea Fleet. The fleet commander, Admiral M.P. Lazarev, often flew his flag on the Silistria and set the ship as an example to the entire fleet.
Subsequently P.S. Nakhimov commanded a brigade (from 1845), a division (from 1852), a squadron of ships (from 1854), which carried out military service off the coast of the Caucasus, suppressing attempts by the Turks and the British behind them to undermine Russia’s positions in the Caucasus and the Black Sea. sea.
With particular strength, the military talent and naval art of P.S. Nakhimov were fully manifested in the Crimean War of 1853-1856. Commanding a squadron of the Black Sea Fleet, Nakhimov discovered and blocked the main forces of the Turkish fleet in Sinop, and on December 1 (November 18), 1853, defeated them in the Sinop naval battle.
During the Sevastopol defense of 1854-1855. P.S. Nakhimov correctly assessed the strategic importance of Sevastopol and used all the forces and means at his disposal to strengthen the city’s defense. Occupying the position of squadron commander, and since February 1855, commander of the Sevastopol port and military governor, Nakhimov, in fact, from the very beginning of the defense of Sevastopol, led the heroic garrison of the fortress defenders, and showed outstanding abilities in organizing the defense of the main base of the Black Sea Fleet from the sea and from land.
Under the leadership of Nakhimov, several wooden sailing ships were sunk at the entrance to the bay, which blocked access to the enemy fleet. This significantly strengthened the city's defense from the sea. Nakhimov supervised the construction of defensive structures and the installation of additional coastal batteries, which were the backbone of the ground defense, and the creation and training of reserves. He directly and skillfully controlled troops during combat operations. The defense of Sevastopol under the leadership of Nakhimov was highly active. Forays by detachments of soldiers and sailors, counter-battery and mine warfare were widely used. Targeted fire from coastal batteries and ships delivered sensitive blows to the enemy. Under the leadership of Nakhimov, Russian sailors and soldiers turned the city, previously poorly defended from land, into a formidable fortress, which successfully defended itself for 11 months, repelling several enemy assaults.
An excellent sailor who saw service in the navy as the only meaning and purpose of his life, P. S. Nakhimov, along with the original talent of a naval commander, had the rare gift of attracting the hearts of his subordinates. The officers and especially the sailors loved P.S. Nakhimov for his genuine passion, for his genuine selfless heroism, for his deep affection for the sailors with whom he shared labors and dangers, joys and sorrows. The admiral's personal example inspired all Sevastopol residents to heroic deeds in the fight against the enemy. At critical moments, he appeared in the most dangerous places of defense and directly led the battle. During one of the detours of the forward fortifications on July 11 (June 28), 1855, P.S. Nakhimov was mortally wounded by a bullet in the head on Malakhov Kurgan.
Nakhimov is a shining example of service to the Motherland, an example of devotion to duty and honor of the Russian fleet. The name of Admiral Nakhimov is near and dear to the citizens of Russia.
By the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of March 3, 1944, the Order of Nakhimov, 1st and 2nd degree, and the Nakhimov Medal were established. Nakhimov naval schools were created. The name of Nakhimov was assigned to one of the cruisers of the Soviet Navy. In the city of Russian glory Sevastopol P.S. A monument to Nakhimov was erected in 1959.
The famous Russian admiral Pavel Stepanovich Nakhimov was born on June 23, 1802 in the village of Gorodok, Smolensk province. It is 260 km from Moscow. He died on June 30, 1855 at the age of 53 in the city of Sevastopol. A nobleman by birth. He served in military service since 1818 after graduating from the Naval Cadet Corps in St. Petersburg. In 1817, as a midshipman, he made his first sea voyage in the Baltic Sea on the brig Phoenix.
Beginning of a military naval career
A true baptism of fire was the circumnavigation of the world in 1822-1825 on the 36-gun frigate "Cruiser" under the command of Mikhail Petrovich Lazarev (1788-1851). The expedition's goal was to protect Russian America from American smugglers. But where is Alaska and where is Kronstadt? Therefore, we had to go around the entire globe to get to our destination.
The ship crossed the Atlantic, circled South America, sailed to Tahiti, and from there headed north. For a year, the "Cruiser" guarded Russian waters from smugglers, and in October 1824 it was replaced by another ship. At the beginning of August 1825, the frigate returned to the Kronstadt port. It should be noted that the voyage took place in difficult conditions. It was accompanied by storms and hurricanes. All participants in this expedition were nominated for awards. Pavel Stepanovich received the rank of lieutenant.
Further naval service
The young officer's further service took place under the command of M.P. Lazarev on the battleship Azov. On October 8, 1827, he took part in naval battle of Navarino. Two fleets fought in this historical battle. On one side was the combined squadron of Russia, France and England, and on the other side was the Turkish-Egyptian fleet. The battle took place in the Bay of Navarino on the southwestern tip of the Peloponnese. The reason for it was the national liberation movement of the Greek people against the Turkish invaders.
The Turks suffered a crushing defeat, and the battery commander Nakhimov was awarded the next military rank of captain-lieutenant. For his courage and heroism, the young officer was awarded the Order of St. George, IV degree. The following year, Pavel Stepanovich was entrusted with command of the 3-masted warship Navarin. It was armed with 30 small and medium caliber guns.
During the Russian-Turkish War of 1828-1829, this corvette took part in blocking the Dardanelles Strait. And after the end of hostilities, the lieutenant commander was transferred along with the ship to the Baltic Fleet. In 1831, Pavel Stepanovich received under his command the most modern warship - the frigate Pallada.
The ship was built according to the personal highest order of Emperor Nicholas I. It was a masterpiece of military shipbuilding of those years. The ship had many design innovations, and was armed with 52 guns. Naturally, they entrusted their command to one of the most worthy officers of the navy of the Russian Empire.
In 1834, Nakhimov was transferred to serve in the Black Sea Fleet. He became the commander of the 84-gun battleship Silistria. It was a real floating fortress. She was considered the best warship and flagship of the Black Sea Fleet.
In 1845, Pavel Stepanovich was awarded the military rank of rear admiral. He led a brigade of ships. And in 1852 he received the rank of vice admiral and became the head of the entire fleet.
Crimean War
In 1853, the Crimean War (1853-1856) began. During this harsh time for Russia, Admiral Nakhimov took charge of the Black Sea squadron. He once again glorified his name in Battle of Sinop. This battle took place on November 18, 1853. In fact, it became the first major battle of the Crimean War.
The battle took place in heavy rain and gusty winds. The Turkish ships were in the bay under the protection of coastal batteries. But this did not frighten the Russian sailors. Enemy resistance was suppressed by powerful gun fire. He destroyed Turkish ships and coastal batteries. Only one Turkish frigate Taif survived. He managed to escape from the fire and go to the open sea. All other ships were sunk. The commander of the Turkish squadron was captured.
In this battle, on the Russian side, 6 battleships and 5 frigates with a total of 746 guns took part. The Turks had 8 frigates and 4 corvettes with a total of 472 guns. Plus, 6 coastal batteries.
The news of the defeat of the enemy instantly reached Sevastopol. On November 22, the victorious ships entered the Sevastopol port amid general popular rejoicing. For the victory at Sinop, the sovereign awarded Pavel Stepanovich the Order of St. George, II degree.
The further course of hostilities was such that in February 1855, ships had to be sunk. Nakhimov was entrusted with the defense of the southern regions of Sevastopol. He proved himself to be a courageous defender and leader of the defense. At the same time, contemporaries noted that the soldiers and sailors treated the admiral with great warmth and respect.
Monument to Admiral Nakhimov in Sevastopol
Death
On June 28, 1855, Pavel Stepanovich toured the advanced fortifications in the most important military strategic sector - Malakhov Kurgan. The Anglo-French artillery fired continuously along the heights. One of the fragments of the exploding shell hit the commander's head. It is noteworthy that he, mortally wounded, was carried out from under fire by the deputy battery commander Vasily Ivanovich Kolchak (1837-1913) - the father of Alexander Vasilyevich Kolchak: the Supreme Ruler of Russia during the Civil War.
On June 30, 1855, Pavel Stepanovich died. He was buried in the city of Sevastopol in the Cathedral of St. Equal to the Apostles Prince Vladimir. Nowadays, this is Suvorov Street 3. During the funeral of the naval commander, the flags on the French and English military ships were flown at half-mast. Even the enemy paid tribute to this courageous man who selflessly served his homeland.
The image of an outstanding naval commander and a faithful son of Russia remained forever in the memory of the Russian people. Ships, lakes, settlements, and city streets are named after him. In 1943, by decree of the Council of People's Commissars of the USSR, the Nakhimov Naval School was created. Thousands of young men came out of its walls and continued the work to which the legendary admiral devoted his entire life.
Alexander Arsentiev
