The Russian prisoners of war during seven years’ war: to statement of a problem

The article is based on the still rare and scattered data on situation of the Russian prisoners in the Prussian captivity during Seven years’ war of 1756-1763. On the basis of the published memoirs and single archival documents the author draws a conclusion on difference in keeping of captured officers and the lower ranks. The situation of the soldiers in captivity was very difficult; they were pressured to go into the Prussian service, they felt the need for clothing and warm rooms, some of the prisoners was forcibly sent to the Prussian army and, contrary to international agreements, remained there even after the end of the war.