Nizhny Novgorod militia of 1612: how a simple merchant saved Russia

In 1612, it was from Nizhny Novgorod that the popular movement broke out, which changed the fate of the Russian statehood. Zemstvo elder Kuzma Minin called on his fellow citizens to rally and organize financial support for the future army, choosing Prince Dmitry Pozharsky for the role of military commander. Through joint efforts, the people managed to liberate the capital from the Polish invaders and put an end to the Time of Troubles. Details can be found in the Izvestia article.

Kuzma Minin — Nizhny Novgorod zemstvo elder: the path from a merchant to the Savior of the Fatherland

Kuzma Minin was an ordinary merchant, but at a historically difficult moment he became a leading figure of national salvation. In response to the appeals of Patriarch Hermogenes, he initiated the creation of a national militia, personally giving all his funds to the needs of the army and encouraging residents to patriotic donations.

His activity manifested itself not only in financial initiatives, but also in:

• general mobilization organizations,

• appeal to the City Council and clergy,

• the contribution of property and the call to give the "third money" to the treasury.

Financing of the people's militia: how funds were raised for the liberation of Moscow

Fundraising has become one of the main tasks in organizing the militia, ensuring the stability and strength of the troops.

Nizhny Novgorod residents started with voluntary contributions, but it soon became clear that this was not enough. A compulsory collection was introduced, according to which each resident was obliged to give a fifth of the income, and if they did not agree, the property was completely withdrawn.

Main financing mechanisms:

• voluntary donations from citizens and merchants,

• compulsory collection of part of property and income,

• the contribution of the treasury, church valuables and jewelry.

These funds were used to hire military professionals, armament, army maintenance, as well as to support the families of the militia who remained in the city.​

Prince Pozharsky — militia commander: why he was chosen

The personality of the military leader was crucial to the success of the popular movement.

Prince Dmitry Pozharsky was a descendant of the ancient Rurikovich family, distinguished by his honesty, selflessness and ability to make informed decisions. Prior to his appointment, he repeatedly showed courage, defending Moscow and speaking out against the interventionists in the most difficult moments of the Time of Troubles. It was these qualities that motivated the choice of Nizhny Novgorod residents, who personally sent an embassy to him with a request to lead the army.

Pozharsky was distinguished by his honesty, was a strategist, and knew how to manage.

Pozharsky agreed, stipulating that Kuzma Minin would be in charge of economic matters, which made them an ideal union of a manager and an administrator.

Capture of Moscow: October 22, 1612

The events of the autumn of 1612 were marked by a decisive attack by the People's army on the Polish-Lithuanian invaders in Moscow. After stubborn fighting, on October 22, the militia was able to take Kitay-gorod, which became a turning point in the struggle for the independence of the capital.

The sequence of key events:

1. Unification of troops under the command of Minin and Pozharsky.

2. The approach to Moscow and the siege of Kitay-gorod.

3. Successful assault and liberation of the capital.

4. The final departure of the invaders.

The capture of Moscow ended the era of the Time of Troubles, became a symbol of national unity and a feat for centuries.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.