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Boris ManakovPilot, pioneer of Russian aviation
Date of Birth: 21.03.1887
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Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Aviation Pioneer
- Engineering Career
- Military Service
- Post-Revolution and Later Years
- Legacy
Early Life and Education
Boris Dmitrievich Manakov was born on March 21, 1887, in Kazan, Russia, into the family of merchant Dmitry Nikolaevich Manakov. After the death of his father in 1898, his uncle, also a merchant, became his guardian and mentor. He received a brilliant education, graduating from Arhangelsk Real School and later enrolling in the shipbuilding department of Saint Petersburg Polytechnic Institute in 1908.
Aviation Pioneer
While at the institute, Manakov developed a keen interest in aviation and became a member of the student aviation circle. In 1911, he traveled to France and enrolled in Latam Aviation School in Reims, obtaining his pilot's diploma on June 11, 1911. Upon his return to Russia, Manakov participated in numerous demonstration flights, becoming the first aviator from Arhangelsk.
Engineering Career
Alongside his flying endeavors, Manakov continued his studies at the Polytechnic Institute and conducted experiments in the aerodynamic wind tunnel under the guidance of renowned Russian aircraft designers Igor Sikorsky and Vladimir Slesarev. In 1915, he graduated with distinction, becoming the first Russian engineer to receive a higher education in aviation in Russia.
Military Service
Upon graduating, Manakov passed exams for the Theoretical Aviation Courses and joined the Russian Imperial Army as an "охотник" (volunteer) in aviation. He served on the front from 1916, displaying bravery and proficiency as a pilot. He was awarded the prestigious George Cross.
Post-Revolution and Later Years
Manakov did not support the October Revolution and returned to Arhangelsk. He fought alongside the British-Slavic Aviation Corps, earning several British military decorations. After the evacuation of the British expeditionary force, he relocated to Latvia, where he worked in engineering roles for various technical firms until his death on October 8, 1933.
Legacy
Boris Dmitrievich Manakov is remembered as a pioneer of Russian civil aviation and aeronautics. His pioneering efforts helped establish Russia as a significant force in aviation. His grave in Riga bears the inscription, "Pioneer of Russian civil aviation, Russian aeronautics."
