Foma Dyakov Public figure of the Galician-Russian movement Country: Poland

1. Fedor Diakov: Champion of the Galician-Rusyn Movement
2. Activism and Leadership
3. First Vienna Trial
4. Amnesty and Return
5. "Austrian Hangman"
6. Last Known Activity

Fedor Diakov: Champion of the Galician-Rusyn Movement

Born in Verbezh, Galicia (present-day Ukraine), Fedor Diakov emerged as a prominent figure in the Galician-Rusyn movement, an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting Rusyn culture and identity.

Activism and Leadership

As a young man, Diakov actively involved himself in local affairs, establishing a reading society in his village and leading a cooperative. In 1901, he was nominated as a candidate for the provincial parliament but withdrew to support another candidate.

First Vienna Trial

The authorities took notice of Diakov's activities, and at the outbreak of World War I, he was arrested and put on trial alongside five other Galician-Rusyn activists. Accused of treason, they were sentenced to death but had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment. Diakov remained incarcerated for the duration of the war.

Amnesty and Return

In 1917, after the death of Emperor Franz Joseph, Diakov was granted amnesty and returned to his village. He continued to lead the reading society and participate in the Galician-Rusyn movement.

"Austrian Hangman"

In the aftermath of the trial, Diakov began signing his correspondence as "Austrian Hangman." This moniker became associated with the sacrifices made by those unjustly accused in the First Vienna Trial.

Last Known Activity

Diakov remained involved in the Galician-Rusyn movement until his later years. His last known communication, a greeting sent to a gathering of Russophiles in 1938, is a testament to his enduring commitment to his cause. His fate beyond that date remains unknown.