Biography. Reference Material

Durova Nadezhda Andreevna (Alexander Andreevich Alexandrov) [September 1783, Kiev - March 21 (April 2) 1866, Yelabuga] - Russia's first female officer, "The Female Trooper" and writer.

Nadezhda Durova was born to a Hussar. The girl learned to ride horses and handle weapons.

In 1801, she married and had a son a year later, Ivan, but she did not remain with her husband. In 1806, she cut off her hair and dressed in men's military clothing, running away with a Cossack regiment in the city of Grodno. There, she joined the cavalry regiment under the name of Alexander V. Sokolov. As a part of this regiment, she took part in many battles. She was awarded the Military Order (soldier George Cross) for bravery and saving the life of an officer. Emperor Alexander I, knowing that Durova was a woman, let her stay in the army.

During the War of 1812, Nadezhda Durova participated in the battles of Smolensk and Borodino. She was injured, but in 1813, returned to the military.

Only in 1816, after listening to the request of her father, did Durova resign.

In 1836 the literary activity of N. Durova began. She published, “Notes of a Female Trooper." A. Pushkin wrote her an enthusiastic response and encouraged her to continue writing. In addition to, "Notes," Durova published several novels.

Nadezhda Durova died in 1866 in Yelabuga and was buried with military honors.

Last updated: 20 February 2013, 15:50

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