Heroic contribution of Pskov in the protection of the Russian North during the "northern" wars at the end of XVI - to the beginning of XVIII centuries

Strengthening of centralized states surrounding the Baltic Sea, and the collapse of the medieval Livonian Confederation created at the dawn of modern times geopolitical vacuum, has drawn the neighboring countries in an active struggle for the Eastern Baltic. Of particular importance was the struggle for Poland, Lithuania, Sweden and Russia. In the midst of international conflict between the two countries was of Pskov, who was in XVI-XVII centuries, the main stronghold of the Russian state in the area. Foreigners, in turn, is highly valued as a defensive and offensive capabilities of Pskov, "Russia considered it the surest bulwark against Livonia, and Poland and Sweden have always wanted to get him as foreign hedge against this country" [1, p. 302].

The strategic importance of Pskov very apparent in a whole series of so-called "northern" wars that took place from 1558 to 1721 and to establish their own hegemony in the members area of the Baltic Sea (dominium maris Baltic). Pskov fortress was one of the greatest defenses in Eastern Europe. The length of the walls in the XVI century was 9 miles, and they have expanded and consolidated, built monumental towers were - Gremyachaya and others. Construction of the fortress was built of local limestone and boulders. Experts estimate the numbers flow of materials during the construction: about 600 thousand cubic meters of stone materials, 123 thousand cubic meters of lime, the same amount of sand and about 20 million buckets of water. One of the participants of the Polish siege of Pskov in 1581 admired its scale, "Admiring Pskov. Lord, what a great city! Similarly, Paris! God help us deal with it "[2, p. 321]. The outstanding quality of the Pskov stronghold recognized and modern foreign experts (for example, the British military historian Robert Frost) [3, p. 83].

During the Livonian War, 1558-1583. The heroic defense of Pskov frustrated aggressive plans of the Polish king Stefan Batory. These events are well known, has long received due recognition in both domestic and in foreign historiography, and require no further comment under this humble article. Suffice it to recall the remark by N.M. Karamzin, who believed that his heroic defense of Pskov "saved Russia from the greatest danger, and the memory of this important contribution not be wiped away in our history, until we lose our love of country and his name" [4, 142].

Unfortunately, this covenant is not a classic of safe conduct for the subsequent events of the Pskov history. At present, sometimes even the venerable Russian historians, well-versed in the vicissitudes of European politics of the period, allow the annoying bugs (or reservation) when it comes to military and political past of their country. Very strange, for example, voice an opinion about what to Stolbovo 1617 the Swedes were forced to return (?) Pskov [5, p. 55]. Especially these errors are not acceptable when they are replicated reputable scientific journals. For this reason, it is worth recalling some facts that are not without the participation of Pskov predetermined path of development of the Russian state in the XVII - early XVIII centuries and led eventually to the creation of the Russian Empire.

Pic. 1. The plan of Pskov 1581. URL: (03.01.2012)

Less than twenty years after the end of the Livonian War, as the very threshold of Pskov, a new military conflict broke out. His back was the catalyst for the Baltic region, divided between the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and Sweden. Moreover, the first owned by Livonia with Riga and Tartu, the second - Estonia with Reval and Narva. However, both parties were not averse to expand its ownership by a neighbor. The situation was aggravated by their dynastic contradiction.

In 1592 the king of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth Sigismund III Vasa, and inherited the Swedish throne. But his inflexible policies and a fervent Catholicism provoked the resistance of the Protestant population of Sweden, Sigismund III had to go back to Poland. In 1599 the Swedish Riksdag elected the new ruler of the king's uncle, Duke Charles Sedermanlandskogo, who was crowned in 1604 under the name of Charles IX. The contradictions between the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and Sweden continued to grow.

The first military action started by the Swedes, using as a pretext claim Sigismund III in Northern Estonia. In 1600 the then Duke Charles at the head of the troops entered Tallinn. Despite the fact that the main military forces of the Commonwealth were engaged in war with the Turks, the Swedes suffered heavy losses under the Cēsis and Koknese. Ended in failure and the Swedish siege of Riga. In autumn 1601 the Livonian Pardaugava arrived with his troops the King Sigismund III, and by the end of the year the Polish-Lithuanian forces managed to drive out the Swedes from the entire territory of modern Latvia.

In 1604 during the siege of Riga, the Swedes again failed. City of Riga, who received income from trade with Belarus and Lithuania, was interested in maintaining good relations with Poland. In gratitude for the loyalty demanded by the city of the Polish king of new privileges. The Swedes made a raid deep into the Duchy of Courland, but in 1605 suffered a major defeat at the Kirhgolma, where the troops of the Commonwealth under the leader-property Hetman Chodkie-wicz defeated John superior enemy forces. Charles IX narrowly avoided capture.

In Russia at this time of turmoil raged, this is extremely complicated situation of Pskov in the face of belligerent neighbors. However, the new Swedish king Charles IX was originally demonstrated the Moscow authorities ostentatious friendliness and tried to conclude an alliance with them against the hostile Poles. In 1608, a popular Russian commander MV Skopin-Shuisky concluded at a meeting held in Novgorod with the Swedish Ambassador M. Mårtensson tentative agreement to provide the Government of Sweden, King Basil Shuisky military aid to fight his opponents. This agreement was confirmed in 1609 Vyborg contract, which provided for the transfer at the disposal of a subsidiary in Moscow in the Swedish contingent of five thousand soldiers under the command of Jacob De la Gardie. Union between Sweden and Russia, concluded in 1609, has angered the Polish king. Taking advantage of internal political problems in Russia, Sigismund III in the same year she officially declared war. Vyborg contract was valid only until mid-1610, ie before the defeat of the Russian-Swedish army under Klushino at Smolensk. In this battle, defeated the Poles, and the Swedish mercenaries Delagardi for a promise to remain neutral in an organized retreat to the north, thus betraying their allies. The troops of the Commonwealth took Moscow. After a long siege in June 1611 fell Smolensk.

Sure of the plight of Russia, the Swedish military leadership treacherously launched against her undeclared intervention. It is intended to deprive the benefit of all the Swedish coast of the Gulf, especially Izhorskaya land (Ingria) and Karelia. To consolidate his power in the Swedish army entered the ancient Russian cities such as Korela (Kexholm), Nut (Noteburg), Yam (Yamburg), Ladoga, Koporye, Ivangorod. Moreover, in the summer of 1611 De la Gardie came to

Novgorod, rose Khutyn camp at the monastery, and then went on to assault and was able to capture the Sofia side. This immediately made the Swedish masters of the situation and prompted some of Novgorod to swear allegiance to their king. Until 1617 the Swedish invaders held entire Russian Lapland to the north of Staraya Russa.

In these conditions, only Pskov, heroically defended by in almost complete isolation from the rest of the country, prevented the final annexation of the North-West Russia in favor of the Swedish crown. The situation was aggravated by the presence in neighboring Livonia, Pskov another dangerous enemy - the Polish-Lithuanian invaders. In the spring of 1611 the Lithuanian hetman Jan Chodkiewich Livonia, who was at that moment in Tartu, attacked the Pechora River, and within six weeks of siege to the monastery-fortress. Timely help from Pskov saved his western outpost [6, p. 120]. In the end, broke out in Russia, the People's Liberation War forced the Poles to withdraw completely. But to the north and east of the city continued to threaten the Swedish invaders. Beginning in 1611 the Swedes and their allies Novgorod five times trying to capture Pskov. Particularly acute struggle to reach the city in 1615.

The main danger threatening from the Pskov belonged to the Swedes of Narva. However, on their way to lay unconquered Pskov Gdov suburbs. In the implementation of the Swedish and other plans have a hitch. October 30, 1611 Charles IX died, and the Swedish king was his seventeen year old son, Gustav II Adolf. He would later become famous as an outstanding leader and a pioneer, which will radically change the course of the so-called Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) -the first pan-European conflict, which laid the fundamental principles of modern international law. However, the Glory "Northern Lion" was waiting for him in the future. And while "Snow King" (another romantic epithet, which awarded the Gustav Adolf's contemporaries) had to complete the work begun by his father.

In the 1611-1613 years. Kalmar War broke out galloping between Sweden and Denmark, which required the personal presence of the new monarch. However, as soon as possible to the situation the young Swedish king turned his attention to Pskov border. In a letter to Jacob De la Gardie, dated 1613 year, Gustav Adolf wrote: "It is very useful to attack Pskov and try there luck for the reason that Pskov is a great trading city, which was then Sweden and its people can lead a great deal if it goes into our hands "[7, p. 75]. In 1614, Gustav Adolf personally went for the next theater of operations through the capital of Swedish Finland Abo (Turku), Vyborg and Narva. King managed to Gdov, after which he sailed to Sweden with the intention to continue the offensive in the Pskov next year.

At the beginning of 1615 against the Swedes had Pskov reconnaissance in force, but were driven back to the defenders. Then in the summer of that year, the city rushed to the walls of the Swedish army garrison commander Novgorod Evert Horn. Finally, 30 July 1615 from the north on the road to Pskov Gdov approached the main forces of the Swedes led by the king himself. The rate of Gustavus Adolphus was organized in Snetogorsk monastery. The same day, made an unexpected attack of Pskov against the enemy. As a result, the Swedish troops have suffered significant damage, the King Gustav Adolf is rumored to have been injured and killed by Marshal Horn. Pskov Chronicle highlighted the death of the eminent Swedish commander: "The Miracle byst full of glory. By the grace of the Holy Trinity and the Blessed Virgin Mary and the saints Wonderwork- ers Pskov unseen evil force of the barbarian slaughter bits their brave commander Evergorn like of the old Goliath "[6, p. 120]. This first collision immediately showed the Swedes that they will have to overcome the defenses are not demoralized turmoil of the population, as they expected, and well-organized resistance experienced and accustomed to war, people.людей.

The Swedes attempted to take the Pskov cunning. On the night of August 15 of a small group together with the "Little Russian" Cossacks deserters made a diversion by trying to penetrate the fortress of deceit under the guise of refugees. However, the vigilant guardian of them did not miss. Then they blew up near the gates Vzvozskie Lower lattices and, by breaking into the fortress wall Zapskovye, rushed to Varlaamskim gate, which stood opposite the main forces of the Swedes. The situation was critical, but the Pskov garrison and local residents rose to the occasion. As a result of fierce street fighting Pskov managed to dislodge the invaders from the city and shut the gates Vzvozskie.

Night storm broke, and Gustav Adolf had to resume a planned siege of the city, which lasted about two months. On the perimeter walls were erected Swedish fortified batteries (so-called. "Hill"). October 9, 1615 the Swedes were the general assault on the north side of Pskov. This was preceded by a three-day bombardment, which resulted in the damaged tower Kutekroma and serfs in the Kremlin, as well as on the angular Varlaamskaya Zapskovye [8, p. 220]. The Swedish king sent his main force to attack Vaarlamskih gate. In addition, the Swedes crossed the Great and inflicted a blow on the support of the Ivanovo monastery toward the bottom bars. However, all these operations have ended in failure for the Swedes.

After Pskov repulsed the assault, Gustav Adolf finally lifted the siege and 17 October gave the order to retreat. Trying to paralyze the normal life of the city, the invaders have erected at the mouth of the Great fortified fort, which was supposed to supply the garrison from Narva to Lake Pskov - Chydskii. The Swedish king hoped to use the fort as a harbor for their galleys, and a beachhead in the event of renewed campaign against the Pskov next year. Pskov is well understood concept, and the Swedes have left them a chance to implement it. In early 1616 they were cleared of the invaders of the Great Delta, thereby restoring the ability of normal navigation and communication Pskov with its northern suburbs and the Baltic States.

The news about the final defeat of the Swedes on the banks of the Great Gustavus Adolphus found in Helsingfors (now Helsinki), where in January 1616 began meeting birth assembly of the kingdom. Events at Pskov negative impact on the mood of his deputies who expressed the King claims in the sense that "the Russian war is more of the greed of a foreign land, than on the need to" [7, p. 77]. Thus, Pskov became the first among the few military and political fiasco of Gustavus Adolphus. Hardest crushing defeat the Swedes at Pskov forced them to moderate their ambitions for great-power agreement signed Stolbovo 1617, according to which the Russian government returned the core of Novgorod lands. However, to fully restore the prewar status quo is not possible, resulting from Russia was cut off everything she owned the Gulf of Finland. In this case the boundary of Pskov remained intact.

In 1617, Rech Pospolita and Sweden continued to struggle for supremacy in the Baltic Sea. A young Swedish King Gustav II Adolf took Courland coast and the port of Pärnu and then began an active diplomatic effort to recruit allies against the Commonwealth. At the same time, he made a complete reorganization of the Swedish army and navy. Aiming to capture the entire Polish Livonia (Inflyanty), Gustav Adolf began to implement their intentions. In 1621, before the Swedes finally surrendered Riga, and in 1625 - Tartu. A little later, to finally eradicate the Polish Livonia in Eastern influence, the king will sign a decree on the establishment of the Protestant University of Tartu. The new school was designed to replace the abolished Jesuit College, founded during the reign of Poles here.

After lengthy negotiations in 1629 in the Altmark armistice was concluded, which meant the end of the war between the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and Sweden. Under the terms of Altmarkskogo world, Poland's former possessions in Livonia were divided as follows: the territory of modern Northern Latvia (Vidzeme), and Southern Estonia withdrew Sweden, and the territory of Eastern Latvia (Latgale) remained in the possession of Poland. Thus, all the major ports on the east coast of the Baltic Sea - Riga, Tallinn and Narva - were in the hands of the Swedes. Under their rule, and joined the city of Tartu, who controlled the western coast of Lake Chydskoe.

In the middle of XVII century, relations between Russia, Poland and Sweden were very confused and did not improve. After the first pan-European Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) Sweden fully controlled the Baltic Sea and claimed the lead in the North-Eastern Europe. At the same time, neither Rech Pospolita, nor Russia have refused from the intentions to strengthen its position in the region. In 1654 war broke out between Russia and Ukraine because of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. Russian troops recaptured Smolensk, captured the most important centers of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania (Vitebsk, Mogilev, Minsk) for the first time in the history of Lithuania was occupied Vilnius, Kaunas and then Grodno. Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich required declaring his Grand Duke of Lithuania.

The new king, Charles X of Sweden took the approach of Russian troops to seize some of the territory of the Polish-Lithuanian state for themselves, thus securing the supremacy of Sweden on the Baltic Sea and to prevent access to it in Russia. In 1655 two Swedish army invaded Poland and occupied the third Inflyantiyu (Polish Livonia) and part of the territory of modern Lithuania. Warsaw fell on September 8. In a situation where most of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania was occupied by Russian troops, Hetman Janusz Radziwill and some other noble lords have decided to join the Swedes. Near the town of Kedainiai signed the Lithuanian-Swedish agreement, tearing the union between the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and Poland, and proclaiming the same union between Lithuania and Sweden. The Swedish king Charles X Gustav was proclaimed Grand Duke of Lithuania. However, the behavior of the Swedish troops in the occupied territories has led to the fact that in 1656 broke anti-Swedish rebellion. The war dragged on. Swedish army had to leave Lithuania, which meant the termination of the union of Lithuania with Sweden.

The interference in Polish affairs in Sweden was not included in the plans of Russia. The clash of their interests in the Baltic States in the same year led to the outbreak of war between the two countries. The war began with a conflict of Swedish and Russian troops from Daugavpils. In the summer of 1656 Moscow's troops, led by Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich, captured from the Swedes and the Daugavpils Kokengauzen. They were able to go as far as Riga, but the strength to take the besieged city, is not enough, which caused extreme frustration and anger of the king.

Successfully developed the offensive of the Russian troops from Pskov. The Swedish garrison in Dorpat (Tartu, Estonian, Russian, St. George), was besieged by the troops governor Prince Trubetskoy A., and Revel, and Narva on the roads covered their squads II Sunbulova and LK Shehovskogo. Swedes had taken refuge in the Lais were not able to assist the besieged, and in October 1656 Tartu capitulated [9, p. 37]. Thus, the city, founded Kievan Prince Yaroslav the Wise, passed under the authority of the Russian Tsar and his people brought to the proper oath of allegiance. At the same time in Latgale came under Russian rule, and Marienburg (Aluksne).

One of the main initiators of Russia's entry into another "Northern" war with Sweden was the head of the Ambassadors of the order AL Ordin-Nashchokin, came from a noble family of the Pskov and made a brilliant career at the court of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich, due to the personal abilities and education. His diplomatic skills first appeared before the war as a commissioner for the demarcation of Pskov, the Swedish section of the border. Later, the Swedes, who had to deal with Ordin-Nashchokin, called him a "Russian Richelieu" [10, 275-276].

In early 1657 the Swedes made a foray into the vicinity of the Pskov-Pechora monastery and laid siege to Gdov. However, the IA troops forced the enemy to withdraw Khovanskii to Narva, which was not enclosed by a chain of bastions and was close to collapse. Russian captured the Swedish fortress on the Neva Nyenskans, and Cossacks, equipped by Patriarch Nikon, even were able to board a Swedish sailing near the island of Kotlin. However, the key points of the Ingrian land - Nut and Yam - were the Swedes.

In 1658 in the village Valiesari halfway between Narva Syrenskom and representatives of Sweden and Russia concluded a truce for three years. Negotiations with the Russian side led Or-din-Nashchokin, who was able to hold on to all of Russia won her Livonian cities. However, the peace treaty between Sweden and the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, following the death of a prisoner of Charles X in Oliva, near Danzig, complicated the situation in Russia. The Polish king John Casimir renounced all claims to the Swedish throne, which are put forward by his predecessors since the days of Sigismund III Vasa. This peace was necessary for Poland to continue the war against Russia. In 1661 the Polish-Lithuanian troops took the offensive, including capturing Sebezh on the southern borders of Pskov region.

In the same year in the village Kardiss that the half-way between the Yuriev and Revel, started the Russian-Swedish talks on the subject of peace. Ordin-Nashchokin they basically did not take part. He was convinced of the need for any price to secure for Russia conquered by the Livonian town, for which, even thought it possible to give up Ukraine in favor of Poland to free the hands for war against the hated western neighbor [11, p. 510].

However, faced with the prospect of war on two fronts, the Russian side was forced to make concessions to the Swedes. As a result Kardissky a peace treaty in 1661 restored between Sweden and Russia, the pre-war status under the Stolbovo 1617. Thus, Russia has once again been cut off from the Baltic Sea.

The political significance of Pskov on the eve of the following account of the Great Northern War (1700-1721) reached its climax. Especially, it is clearly evident in March 1665, when he was appointed voivod from Pskov A.L. Ordin-Nashchokin, who continued, however, to carry out effectively the functions of state chancellor (custodian great sovereign press). During his province of

Pskov became a kind of diplomatic capital of the country. In the 1666-1667 years. Ordin-Nashchokin, remaining head of the Pskov administration, and led the negotiations that resulted in the signing Andrussovskogo truce between Russia and the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, in which the latter refused on the left-careful of Ukraine and Kiev. And in September 1668 for his active participation was opened Russia's first international highway Moscow - Pskov - Riga with the regular mail, with the communication. Junction of the canal was just Pskov. Weekly on Wednesdays in the Pechora met Riga and Pskov couriers, exchange diplomatic and private correspondence.

After World Kardissky relations between Russia and Sweden seemed to be calm, developed trade. But the tension remained. In Stockholm, do not forget about their old plans to establish control over the North-West Russia. They were resuscitated as early as 1674 - just in time for the Swedish Embassy in Moscow Oksensherna Gustav, which was moving towards its goal through the Pskov. March of that year, an anonymous document dated to the expressive title "Project inarticulate, to who should be a way to fight with Moscow" [12, p. 34]. The unknown author of the project is strongly advised to maintain the Swedish king, trusting relationship with Poland, so that in case of need together to oppose the Russian. In his opinion, Sweden should have been closer, and with the Ottoman Empire and the Crimean Khanate, and Persia, to be their allies face in case of war with Russia. Then followed a description of the Russian lands to the military-strategic point of view, the shocks were planned direction of the Swedish troops during the alleged winter and summer campaigns. Discussed and what the fleet and the forces should keep alert to the White Sea, to seize Kargopol, Archangel and their surroundings. Provided data about the sea depths, fairways, harbors, islands, etc. After mastering the Archangel Swedes asked to move deeper into the Ob River in Siberia and to seize its capital - Tobolsk. The main occupation forces encouraged to send to the area between the Kargopol, White Sea, Northern Dvina, and Vologda, in order to permanently secure them for the Swedish kingdom.

A special place in these plans was given to Pskov and Novgorod. Their neighborhood was assumed to use as the main front-line base for the maintenance of the Swedish army, and strengthened by additional new frontier fortresses, and mobile military units. In addition, the author of searchlights reflected on how to achieve the loyalty of the Russian population in the occupied lands of Sweden, stressing that local commoners dissatisfied with life, restless disposition, and inclined to revolt. He believed that their location can be achieved distribution of monastic lands and church property, and freedom of religion, "characteristic of our religion in relation to their faith." The author also believed that the cost would be to select a hundred or two more or less educated, entrepreneurial, have good health of local young people and to attribute the content to universities in Tartu, Turku and Uppsala. In the case of the Swedish invasion of their proposed use as a sort of "agents of influence" to ensure that they are traveling on the said land, would act with speeches, winning the hearts and otherwise ensuring the loyalty of the population. In any case, at that time all of the above plans have remained on paper, as the leading position of Sweden in the Baltic Sea are not satisfied with its southern neighbors, primarily Denmark and Poland.

To be fair to mention that on cross-border cultural exchange existed, and the opposite point of view. For example, in late November 1698 the deputy military commandant, Major Val-lenshted Tartu in a report to the Governor-General of the Swedish Livonia Eric Dahlberg was trying to clear up rumors about the alleged probable arrival at the University of Tartu four Russian students, each of which, moreover, must be accompanied by a few slaves. Mayor was concerned that under the guise of students come to town disguised as none other archers from Moscow! In a panic from a hypothetical influx of Russian Major suggested that even in the form of an ultimatum to require the neighbors to clean from the Pechora Monastery monks near the University of Tartu and move there. According to Swedish warriors, it is better to let people on the go for the science of Tartu in the Pechora than a "fifth column" of Russian students flood the city entrusted to him [12, p. 37].

Dissatisfaction with the domination of the Baltic States of Sweden and the fear of further aggression contributed to the formation of anti-Swedish coalition. This coalition would involve Russia, having, however, measures to ensure "that this powerful ally snatched from under the nose is not hot and did not go beyond Narva and Lake Chyd" [13, p. 383].

At the beginning of the XVIII century the Baltic region, which borders Pskov land once again became the scene of hostilities. In 1699 was created anti-Swedish Northern League, which included Russia, Denmark, Rech Pospolita, and Saxony. The ruler of Poland and Saxony August II the Strong was hoping with the support of Peter I return to Livonia (and if possible, and Estonia) in the Polish-Lithuanian state. The decision of the Elector of Saxony, influenced by the fact that the capture of Livonia, he saw the best way to consolidate his power in the Commonwealth and its transformation into a hereditary [14, p. 284]. Active coalition was inspired Livonia landlord Johann Reinhold Patkul, an outspoken opponent of Swedish agrarian reform (reduction). It was he who organized the 1698 meeting of the Saxon Elector Augustus II, who was both King of Poland, and Peter I on the way back from Europe last. Patkul hoped to wrest Livonia from Sweden and make it an autonomous province of the magnate, Polish gentry, decentralized political system which is more impressed by some local landowners than the absolutism of the Swedish monarchy. In a secret agreement in August with the assumed transition Patkul Livonia and Estonia in the family possession of the Saxon house.

The original purpose of Russia in this war was the return of the native Russian territory on the southern coast of the Gulf of Finland - Ingrian land (Ingria, and Ingria), the coast of the Neva River and parts of Karelia, seized by the Swedes during the Time of Troubles in accordance Stolbovsky contract in 1617. In particular, the Saxon envoy in Moscow, wrote to his sovereign: "Peter has expressed a desire to make your Royal Highness helped him to take those of the Swedish, who by God's grace and rightly so, in fact belong to Russia and have been lost due to confusion at the beginning of this century" [14]. In accordance with the disposition of the allies the Danes were to engage in controversial and Sweden Holstein, Saxon troops invade Livonia, and the Russian army to take Ingria (Izhorskaya land, or Ingermanland).

Hostile neighbors could not be a big secret to their enemy. Swedish authorities serious concern expressed in the spring of 1697, when passing through the Pskov and Riga Livonia visited the Grand Embassy of Peter I, bound for Western Europe. From Moscow, the embassy had left

10.9 in March 1697 by the usual route through the embassy of Pskov. The first foreign city to visit Peter I, was Riga, owned by Sweden at the time [15, p. 226]. According to the Governor-General of Riga Dahlberg, some ladies of the royal embassy were "very intrusive" and not only climbed on the fortifications of the city, collecting information of a military nature, but "with great diligence burdened residents meaningful discourse." Misunderstandings that occurred during the stay of the Russian Embassy in Riga, Peter later known to be used as an official pretext for declaring war on Sweden. Disturbing rumors brought to the Swedes and the Pskov men who were in the taxi driver and returning from the border of Courland. Focusing on the night of the peasants in the neighborhood of Riga, they were told that the king's army in the summer to come back and attack, as the attack on Azov [12, p. 37].

The Great Northern War began in February 1700 roll Saxons to Riga. To capture the city failed. In March, Denmark entered the war, and after a few months after her, and Russia. Diet of Poland, seeking to avoid war, the king did not give permission for the participation of Polish troops in military operations. That's why Augustus II had to use only the Saxon troops. Rech Po-spolita as a state in the war did not participate. After the start of the offensive on the Western Dvina Saxon nobility of Livonia troops left their farms and evacuated to the city - Revel, Pärnu and Tartu. The entire southern part of Livonia was left to plunder. However, first landed estates began to plunder not enemies, but local farmers [12].].

Russia is also preparing for action against the Swedes. From August 4 to October 2, 1700 in Pskov was the king himself. The city was a single large arsenal. Pskov masters produced edged weapons for the army, cast cannon, built a river and lake vessels. Military preparations could not go unnoticed by the Swedes. The messenger, who arrived from Pskov, said the commandant of the Tartu Karl Schutte, there is concentrated the army of many thousands, but no one knows where and for what purpose it will move. Assumed that it will go to Narva. However, the details of the Swedes did not know, because in the early autumn of Pskov authorities closed the border and did not let across the border.

Suddenly, for the Allies the young Swedish King Karl XII was quite energetic commander. Already in August, he defeated the Danes, and forced them to go to a peace treaty. However, the royal government has not yet aware of this and actively preparing for entry into the war. In November 1700 the Russian army besieging Narva were defeated by the approaching suddenly expeditionary army of Charles XII. Russian losses were great. Suffice it to recall that the Russian army at Narva had lost almost all his field artillery - 135 guns. However, this failure was not fatal to the Russian side and the damage it should not be exaggerated. "Narva confusion" in 1700 can be compared with the "Pskov embarrassing," the Swedes in 1615, because, like Gustavus Adolphus, Peter I could learn a lesson from this defeat and mobilize all forces to restore and strengthen the combat readiness of its army.

Even the fact that the requisition of church bells to recover lost Narva artillery used by some historians as an illustration of the depths of the Russian army experienced a fiasco, it was certainly a necessary measure, but not to be so extraordinary, as usually seems to a layman. In Europe, a so-called "right to the bell" at this time was a common practice. In the English-manusk Ripto XVII century, establishes the duties of Provost Marshal, said that "the gunners and their assistants are entitled to the best bell in place of the conquered." In 1807, Major-General Blomfild wrote that "it was continuing a tradition in our service, when a city capitulated, allowing the officer to require the Royal Artillery, lokola in the city and dependent areas." In the French Army Grand Maitre des Arbaletriers would require guns, bells and brass or bronze utensils in all the conquered cities. In the Spanish army there is the same custom. At one time in England, the bells were confiscated from the monasteries were the main source of weapons-grade metal [16, p. 20]. During this difficult period for the army of Peter the impregnable fortress of Pskov, 200 bristling with guns, enabled Russian to recover, regroup and regain their fighting ability to fight standing almost on the verge of an enemy. Prior to 1705 Pskov became the main base for the army passed under the command of the BP Sheremetev. The headquarters was located in Pskov housing wards in the Postnikov Zapskovye ("house-bag"), acting simultaneously as a commandant.

In all the border points of the Pskov region were reinforced garrisons. Around the old walls of the Pskov on the orders of Peter I hastily erected earthworks, which became the prototype of a new type of fortification of the future of the Russian Empire. King did not personally inspected every performance data. Important role in the preparation of the defense played Pskov Governor V.B. Bukhvostov and his assistants - clerks, and L. L. Klishin Valkov.

Some breathing room necessary to enhance border Pskov, Russian, provided their allies-Saxons, and again threatened the capital of Swedish Livonia - Riga. However, in July 1701 took place on the coast in the Western Dvina Spilveskom battle the Swedes defeated the Saxon army. After this victory, Charles XII became interested in the persecution of the Polish king and moved in the opposite direction from Pskov, south-westerly direction. Specifically dealing with this issue A.G. Zakharenko suggested that the refusal of the Swedish king to storm the north-western border of the Russian state could have influenced this finding in his path such a powerful fortress, like Pskov [17, p. 188]. It is possible that Charles XII really did not want to tempt fate, where a failure by his great predecessor, Gustavus Adolphus.

This does not mean that the Swedes have forgotten about Pskov. Against him in the East of Livonia was concentrated ten thousandth Shlipenbaha bodies, which constantly threatened the frontiers of Pskov. In autumn 1701 the son of Commander Sheremetev - Mikhail Borisovich - defeated the Swedes on their way to the Pechora, and then, crossing the river Vybovku (Võhandu) under myzami Ozeretskoyu frisky and attacked a detachment of Major Rosen and almost completely destroyed it. Of the 600 Swedes were saved only by a lieutenant and major, with 80 soldiers. Russian seized as booty by Swedish convoy, two guns and three Standard enemies.

In December 1701 a campaign against the body Shlipenbaha from Pskov were the main forces Sheremetev. They moved across the ice of the Great River and Lake Pskov. Nomination of Russian troops on Swedish territory took three day transition. The first camp was organized at the church of St. Nicholas from the mouth on the left bank of the Great Delta. The second stop troops made near the village of fox, near the mouth of the river Pimzhy on the west coast of Lake Pskov. At the end of the third day squads Sheremetev finally went to the Estonian coast and camped on the banks of the river Vybovki (Võhandu) in the Räpina. Leaving the train in the latter camp, Pskov body through deep snow secretly moved to Erestferu, where the winter apartment unsuspecting Shlipenbaha.

December 29, 1701 at the battle field Erestfere occurred, culminating in this first major victory in the Russian war. Soldiers of the enemy fled, pursued by Russian regiments, which do not come to Tartu, only about 10 miles away. Nevertheless, her, his garrison was burned himself in a panic suburbs of the city. This victory was celebrated loudly and Pskov, and Moscow. As a reward for her Sheremetev was awarded the title of field marshal.

July 18, 1702 in Pskov Gummelsgofe housing Sheremetev scored another victory over the Swedes, after which the region was virtually cleared from the Swedish field pieces. In August of that year fell Fortress Marienburg (Aluksne). Among the prisoners were captured here and Martha Skavronskaya - future wife of Peter I, better known under the name of Catherine I .

Pskov Corps took an active part in the reconquest of the Ingrian land at the end of 17021703 years. Under the direct command of its connection Sheremetev stormed Nut (Noteburg), and Nyenskans Koporie [18, p. 64-65]. At the same time a detachment of General von Verdun, acting independently, struck from Pskov in the north along the east coast of Lake Peipsi and captured Yamburg (modern Kingisepp), putting the finishing point in the reconquest of Ingria [19, p. 167]. The way in Estonia and Livonia was opened.

Lightning fast connection of the southern Gulf coast between the mouth of the Neva and Narva was achieved by concentrating on this area the most combat-ready units of the Russian army, whose rears were covered securely from a possible attack the main army of Charles XII fortifications of Pskov. In late 1700 - early 1701's. Pskov was launched Russia's first Field Artillery Regiment, whose gunners dressed in uniforms of the symbolic color of "smoke and flame" - short, knee-length red coat with blue trim and brass buttons, red waistcoat, blue stockings and low shoes with buckles blunt. The choice of deployment Artillery Regiment, possibly due not only to the approximate nature of Pskov in the theater of hostilities, but the presence of the necessary infrastructure.

In Pskov, the first time in European military history (earlier than in Western armies) was created by horse artillery, which is confirmed by a number of significant facts. Thus, in the battles of 1702 in Gummelsgofom servants long howitzer was planted on the horses when dragoon regiments had their own mobile artillery, remained a decree "On the horse-drawn artillery dress", which included supplying them with horses and riding accessories. Those skilled in the reasonably argue that it is in the early years of the Great Northern War Russian army began to use field artillery on such a scale that had not been known to European business in Europe [20, p. 73].

Reorganization of the Russian artillery, launched in Pskov, a beneficial impact on future campaigns. Thus, during the siege of the troops Kopor'e Sheremetev in 1703 the Swedes surrendered the next day after the shelling started, despite the bluster preceding the commandant of the fortress, answered the standard offer of surrender, "do not go away." In a report to Peter I Russian field marshal on this occasion said: "Thank God, the music is yours, sir, - mortar bombs - well played: the Swedes are much given to dancing and the Fortress, and if it were not for the bomb, god knows what to do" [21, P. 41].

In July 1704 during the siege of Pskov housing decisive assault on the city of Tartu was preceded by intense artillery bombardment so that Peter I call this tactic "a fiery feast." In August of that year, the king is even organized a kind of command and staff duties to his generals and ministers, explaining the nuances of the position held at the Pskov gunners' fire-feast "[22, p. 103]. This tactic is actively used by Russian troops in their advance on the Baltic and beyond. For example, the threat of massive bombing contributed to the relatively bloodless surrender of Riga, which at that time exceeded in size Stockholm. The famous scholar of the Northern War Academician EV Tarle rightly noted in this connection that "one of the elements of the final victory of Russian and Swedish defeat was rapidly increasing strength of the Russian field and siege artillery and in the parallel there is the decline of the Swedish artillery," [20, p. 71].

Pskov, the Great Northern War was also the birthplace of the first individual in the Russian army pontoon, minernogo and engineering units [1, p. 314]. An important, though, unfortunately, little known now, the role played Pskov and in the initial stage of the domestic fleet. Back in 1667 at the initiative of the famous statesman and Pskov AL Ordin-Nashchokina, who was an enthusiast of the domestic shipbuilding industry, and with the permission of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich Oka was laid the first naval ship "Eagle" [23, p. 9]. In the spring of 1669 built the ship was transferred to Astrakhan to protect shipping in the Caspian Sea, where he was subsequently killed during the uprising Razin [24, p. 71]. However, later in the book of Peter I "The Charter of the sea ..." remarked about the project Ordin-Nashchokina: "From the beginnings of, like a kind of seed, it was the current of the sea." By itself, Pskov was not only a powerful arsenal for the Army, aimed at Swedes in Livonia and Estonia, but also one of the first military shipyards in the NorthWest of Russia. At the same time the experiences of the Azov campaigns and construction of the fleet in Voronezh. Contribute to the creation of the last made, including the clergy, and Pskov. The Dutch artist built a galley on the Don, "Metropolitan of Pskov," which provided the funds for, apparently, Pskov diocese.

The need for auxiliary flotillas came quickly and was recognized by the Russian command in preparation for the struggle for the Baltic and in the Baltic Sea. Particularly active hostilities at the beginning of the Great Northern War between the Gulf unfolded, Chyd Lake and Lake Ladoga, where the enemy had a squadron of warships, manned by personnel sailors. They provided support for the actions of its ground troops and prevented the Russian advance. Swedish commands do not imply the water to meet any serious competitor.

At the beginning of the war is completely ruled by the Swedes in the Lake Peipsi, interrupting water transport and ruining his opponent Russian coast. For example, in 1700 the first trophy - Pskov flag embroidery, delivered just arrived in the Baltic Karl XII, - it was captured by the Swedish flotilla on Lake Peipsi, intercepting a caravan of ships that came from Pskov with military cargoes to Narva [25, p. 90].

Over the next few years since the war began, the Swedish squadron, based at the River Emajõgi near Tartu, has increased from six to fourteen units. Markedly increased and its firepower. Most other guns (14) was the ship "Vahtmeyster" flagships "Karlous" and "Karlskrona" carrying 12 guns, respectively, "Ulrike" - 10 "Narva" and "Schutte" - 8 "Victoria", "Viva "and" Elephant "- 6" Shtremfeld "- 5" Numers "," Shlipenbah "and" Horn "- 4 guns. In the fleet also included the ship "Dorpat", which for some reason mostly remained laid up in Tartu [12, p. 106]. The Swedes tried to lock the Russian ships stationed on the roads of the Great River, within the Pskov lake and do not let them into the waters of Lake Chyd. The command of Russian troops in Pskov, in contrast, is committed to break the blockade established by the Swedish fleet. Reconnaissance Squadron of the lake against the enemy was held in 1701, when released from the mouth of the Great "psko-vitin" Ivan Stepanov with the Cossacks joined the battle with the Swedes, they stole 56 guns and fuzeynyh sank two iron cannons.

In winter 1702 in Pskov was built about 200 "small galleys," as a result of having covered securely Pskov and Lake Peipsi from the Swedes. To perform this task in front of the church Stefanovsky Mirozhsky monastery was organized by this shipyard and mobilized local artisans. In the folk epic of the period preserved the memory of these events: "on the Talab Islands of the Chyd Lake many ship masters and assistants in the city were brought to the meadow at the Great River, near the church Stepan ships against the Swedes

In May 1702 the Pskov garrison troops in boats and longboats moved to the offensive in the north and through the river delta of the Great came to the operating room. In the narrow strait that connects Lake Cgydfrom Pskov, a detachment of Colonel FS Tolbukhin was greeted by the Swedish squadron under the command of Vice Admiral Lesherna. As a result, between Swedish and Russian vessels began a hard fight, which lasted almost continuously for three days [26, p. 34]. Swedish ships had the advantage in arms and artillery showered with a hail of Russian shells. Their volleys were smashed and sunk several Pskov sailboat. However, in response to our soldiers used the tactic of boarding, courageously drawing closer to the enemy under continuous fire and forcing him to join the melee. As a result of a fierce battle the Swedes were forced to leave a lucrative position, and Pskov court, broke the resistance of the enemy, broke through the waters of Lake Chyd. May 31 there has been a battle between the new squad Tolbukhin and five ships of the squadron Lesherna.

Finally, in July 1702 four Swedish ships were attacked Lesherna near the mouth of the river Amovzhi (Embah now Emajõgi) detachment of Russian sailboat, Major-General Gulitsa, out-of Pskov in a few days before. Along the way, landing Gulitsa destroyed at the mouth of the strengthening of the Swedish Amovzhi.

In all unfolded in 1702 in Pskov-Chud battles Swedes suffered significant losses. In the first clash of Pskov soldiers was captured yacht "Vahtmeyster" and the second and the third ended in the capture of two Swedish Shkut - "Flundran" and "Viva" [27, p. 118-119]. These events were a prelude to the formation of Russian naval infantry units in the Baltic. In the battle on Lake Chyd was baptized in the sea as commander of the soldier's regiment Fedot S. Tolbukhin, famed in June - July 1705 of the heroic defense of the island Kotlin that saved St. Petersburg was being built on a massive attack of Swedish Navy [26, p.38- 40]. Pskov experience in dealing with better armed Swedish ships was repeated a month later, on Lake Ladoga, where the enemy had a squadron under the command of Vice Admiral Numersa. June 27, 1702 thirty Russian sailboats attacked him near Keksholm, causing serious damage to the Swedes. In the end, did not dare to stay Numers in Lake Ladoga and took their ships on the River Neva in the Gulf of Finland, which has created favorable conditions for the successful siege of the Russian troops Noteburg - ancient Novgorod fortress Nut. Taking the latter opened the way to the Russian Baltic Sea down the Neva River to the mouth of which the army and went Sheremetev spring 1703. Here, in May of that year a detachment of boats under the command of Peter I and Menshikov took on board the ship two

Swedish ship "Gedan" and "Astrild" that inadvertently separated from the squadron Numersa, who continued to ply the Gulf of Finland.

One of the most important results of the breakout of the Pskov flotilla in the waters of Lake Chyd was the seizure of Russian castle Syrenska (Neyshlossa) - a powerful coastal fortifications on the north-east coast of Narva at the source [28, p. 82]. The ruins of this castle, rising above the Estonian side of the village limits Vaskanarva, still make a strong impression of monumentality. The harbor was Neyshlossa convenient point for the reception of military cargo from the Pskov necessary for the fighting in the operational direction of Narva. Proceeding from this springboard, Russian troops were able to make forays into the neighborhood of Narva and Ivangorod.

However, the main forces of the Swedish squadron at the Emajõgi hiding still represent a serious danger, threatening the flank Russian communications between Pskov and Syrenskom. In 1703 the Swedes were reminded that their early to dismiss, committing sabotage on Talab Islands in Lake Pskov. However, to gain a foothold here, they could not, and destroying the monastery on the island of Superior, sailed to Tartu. Finally, the Swedish threat to the Chud was finished the following summer. This refers to large-scale operation against the Russian Swedish flotilla on the river Emajõgi.

By the summer campaign of 1704 is actively preparing for both sides of the Pskov-Sveyskogo abroad. The Swedes were afraid of the big offensive of the Russian troops from Pskov and confused like most of their plans. It was therefore decided to withdraw the court in Lake Chud as soon as possible. April 16, Major General Commandant of the Tartu Slippenbach sent the following note: "Probably, Lake Chud to this point is completely free of ice, so that the fleet could sail to the familiar spot. The situation is such that its inaction to Tartu, then simply intolerable "[12, p. 107]. After that began a feverish Swedish ships equipped for the campaign. However, the Russian command in Pskov was able to outmaneuver the enemy.

The rate of the Russian troops in Pskov, has decided to shut the Swedes at the mouth of Emajõgi and do not let them into the lake. April 30 the commander of the Swedish fleet Leshern Carl Gustav von Herzfeld, received training in the Netherlands, reported to the commandant of Tartu, with a fair wind that his ships ready to sail. But by this time in the race for who first went down to the water court, the top scored Pskov. Already April 26, Major-General Nikolai von Verdun led 7066 soldiers and archers with eighteen guns to boot sailed from the mouth of the Pskov Emajõgi. Climbing up the river, the Russian team May 3 landed a few miles from the village of Castro. Just the next morning, May 4, 1704 the Swedish squadron finally moved from Tartu to the side of Lake Chud.

After a brief stop at the village Luunja Losher von Herzfeld learned from local fishermen, who were returning to Tartu, which is suitable to the mouth of Emajõgi to hundreds of Russian vessels, and ordered to add the course. Swedish ships raised anchor and deployed in three groups under the sails flew downstream toward its own destruction.

By this time the troops had time to arrange Pskov Swedes trap. The village was blocked by the river Castres interconnected barges, and in front of them, just upstream, a barrier built of logs. Part of infantry and two regiments of musketeers sat down in their boats, and other soldiers lay on the banks of the river. In this way turned out a kind of "bag" in which between seven and eight o'clock in the morning at full speed and flew into the Swedish squadron.

The battle lasted about three hours. Longest held at the flagship "Karlous" he Losher von Herzfeld. But seeing the hopelessness of their situation and unwilling to surrender, the Swedish admiral threw the burning torch into a powder keg and perished with his ship exploded. Swedes 142 people were captured, about 190 people have died or deserted more than 240 officers and soldiers who were in the tail of the squadron, jumped ashore and were able to return under the protection of the fortress walls of Tartu. On the Russian side were killed Lieutenant Colonel, Major and 56 soldiers, 162 people were injured. As winners of the trophies went to twelve ships with 86 guns. Part of the Swedish guns had drowned in the river, but the Russian soldiers were able to raise them.

Captured from the Swedes ships with great triumph was distilled in Pskov. Then they were used in military operations against Tartu and transport of materials needed for re-siege of Narva. As a result of this victory, the Swedes suffered heavy damage to the strategic and navigation on the Lake Chud fully came under Russian control. Waterway from Pskov in Tartu and Narva, very convenient for transportation of military goods required to deploy offensive in the Baltic States, was finally open to the Russian troops.

In St. Petersburg, in the newly erected St. Peter and Paul Church held a thanksgiving service in honor of "lucky 'victory at Castres. King wrote to celebrate Marshal Sheremetev in Pskov, which can only heartily thank God, because "those cases of a single attribute to him worthy." The Dutchman, Adrian Shhonebek dedicated to this event his engraving "Panorama Amovzhe battle on the river where it flows into Lake Chud May 4, 1704," which became the first in a series of local paintings, depicting the outstanding naval victory of Russia.

Soon after this victory, from Pskov in the direction of Tartu were the main forces of Field Marshal Sheremetev and pitched this stronghold of Swedish rule over the eastern Livonia. Russian ships coming up from the lake, assisted by his troops, bombarding Tartu Emajõgi River. July 3 at Tartu in Lake Chyd on the yacht, chipped from the Swedes from the besieged Narva, came the king himself.

July 14, 1704 as a result of violent assault on the city was finally taken. At five o'clock in the afternoon Marshal Sheremetev put his signature to the treaty of surrender of Tartu. As the spoils of war winners received 97 guns, 18 mortars, six howitzers, about 500 thousand musket bullets, more than 1,500 cannon balls and 500 bombs. Impressive were captured from the enemy's food supplies. This victory of the Russian army launched a hand for the taking of Narva, Pskov during which her body carried a cover against possible counter-attack the Swedes from Revel.

Narva Victoria had signed important for the morale of the Russian army. But it was a victory for Tartu, Pskov case was a turning point that began the final expulsion of the Swedish Baltic.

The potential threat to the Swedish attack on Pskov remained for several years, but in practice it was limited to small acts of sabotage by the enemy. In November 1705 a detachment of dragoons of thousand and a half Swedish Colonel Hermann Brockhaus made a raid on the road in the direction of the Riga Russian positions near Pskov and Tartu. In January, 1706 in the direction of the Pechora made foray into a detachment of three hundred Swedish dragoons under the command of Major Freydenfelda. No significant damage to the lands of Pskov, the Swedes were unable to deliver. But stepping back from the old boundaries, they blocked the entire winter of Tartu and burned near the village of Luunja Russian ships stationed there, and hay.

January 3, 1707 an order was issued on the establishment between the Russian and Swedish armies of the dead zone in the border zone of 200 kilomentres, from Pskov, Smolensk, through to Cherkassy, a length of 1,400 kilometers in a straight line. In Pskov, the militia was formed.

The defeat of the Swedish royal army at Poltava contributed to the successful offensive of the Russian troops in the Baltic States, which finally deflected a threat of hostilities from Pskov. In July 1710 the army of Field Marshal Sheremetev opened its gates of Riga, in August of that year, the fortress fell Parnu, and in September - Revel (now Tallinn) [29, p. 203]. This victory secured the Baltic States to Russia, first de facto and eventually de jure .

After the final surrender of Pskov, Livonia and Estonia lost its role as the principal bulwark of Russian interests in the Baltic region. However, its potential strategic importance for the Russian state's geopolitical position in the North West continued to persist as the event proved the 20's and 30's and 90's. XX century. After joining at the turn of XX-XXI centuries. Baltic countries to the European Union Pskov again, as discussed above in the period, turned to the next land to the West Gate of Russia.