Raevskii Nikolai

Rajewski Nikolai Nikolaevich (1771, St. Petersburg - 1829, with. Boltyshka Kiev Province.) - Military leader, hero of the Patriotic War of 1812. Belonged to an ancient noble family. Since childhood recorded in the Life Guards, in 1786 began active duty Guard ensign. The fighting was baptized in the Russian-Turkish war of 1787 - 1791, distinguished themselves in the capture of Ackerman and Bender, and returned with her 19-year old lieutenant colonel. He was married to the granddaughter M.V. University SA. Konstantinova. Participated in wars with Poland (1792 - 1794) and the Persian expedition (1796 - 1797). Under Paul I was "removed from service, under Alexander I returned with the rank of Major-General. Participated in the wars with France (1805 - 1807), Sweden (1808 - 1809) and Turkey (1806 - 1812), showing great courage and military talent. Since the beginning of the war of 1812 R. commanded the 7 th infantry corps in the Army II. I. Bagration and was able to detain the French Marshal Davoust, making it possible to withdraw the main forces. During the battle Saltanovskogo Rajewski led the regiment pulling the troops. According to legend, beside him were his sons, 17 and 11 years. During the rearguard actions at Smolensk made it possible to connect the armies of PI. Bagration and M.B. Barclay de Tolly. In the battle of Borodino Corps Raevskogo defended mound by the height at the center position, where 18 guns were installed batteries, which received the name Rajewski and reflect all French attacks. A member of the military council at Fili, who took the decision to abandon Moscow. He fought during foreign trips 1813 - 1814, becoming in 1813 General of the Horse. After the war, resigned in 1826 as a member of the State. Board. Was friendly with A.S. Pushkin, with many of the Decembrists, who had hoped that after their victory Raevskii become a member of the Provisional Government of the Supreme. A.S. Pushkin wrote of him: "Witness Catherine century, a monument to 12 years, a man without prejudices, with a strong character and sensitivity, he inadvertently attracts anyone who is only worthy to understand and appreciate its high quality."