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Ivan DurnovoRussian statesman, Minister of Internal Affairs
Date of Birth: 13.03.1834
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Early Life and Military Career
- Napoleonic Wars
- Patriotic War of 1812
- European Campaign
- Later Career and Retirement
Early Life and Military Career
Dmitry Nikolayevich Durnovo was born on an aristocratic estate in 1786. His father was a general in the infantry. Young Dmitry entered the prestigious Semyonovsky Guards Regiment in 1793, but his formal military service began seven years later.
Napoleonic Wars
In 1807, Durnovo received his baptism of fire against the French in Prussia. At Friedland, he sustained a serious leg injury. In 1809, he became a colonel and brigade commander. The following year, he volunteered for the siege of the Turkish fortress of Ruse, where he was wounded in the arm.
Patriotic War of 1812
As commander of the 18th and 29th Jaeger Regiments, Durnovo fought in the Patriotic War of 1812. Under General Langeron's command, he participated in battles at Lyuboml, Terebun, and Vysokoye-Litovsk. For his role in capturing Volkovysk, he received the Order of St. George, 4th Class.
European Campaign
Continuing his military exploits, Durnovo joined the European campaign in 1813. He aided in capturing Warsaw and Krakow, and fought in engagements at Cöthen, Prausnitz, and Katzbach. In August 1813, he returned to combat at Liebau and Hochkirch, participating in the capture of Neustadt and Stolpen. He also distinguished himself at Düben, Weiderich, Shenfeld, and Leipzig.
Later Career and Retirement
In 1814, Durnovo took part in the blockade of Kassel and fought in battles along the Urk Canal, La Ferté-sous-Jouarre, Soissons, and Montmartre. For his exceptional performance in the 1812-1814 campaign, his regiment was elevated to the status of a carbineer regiment. Durnovo himself was promoted to major general.
After the Napoleonic Wars, Durnovo continued to command infantry brigades. In 1821, he retired due to health reasons and settled in Moscow. In 1844, he relocated to St. Petersburg, where he remained until his death.
