Ivan Zarubin Yaitsky Cossack, participant in the uprisings of 1772 and the Peasant War of 1773-1775 Date of Birth: 01.01.1736 Country: Dive

1. Ivan Zarybin-Chika
2. Early Involvement in Rebellions
3. Meeting Pugachev
4. Joining Pugachev's Forces
5. Military Career
6. "Count Chernyshev"
7. Defeat at Chelyabinsk
8. Capture and Execution

Ivan Zarybin-Chika

Ivan Zarybin, known as Chika, was a prominent participant in both the Yaik Rebellion of 1772 and the Pugachev Rebellion of 1773-1775.

Early Involvement in Rebellions

Zarybin's involvement in the Yaik Rebellion earned him a close escape from severe punishment. After the rebellion's collapse, he fled with his cousin Ilya Ulyanov to the steppes beyond Yaik territory. During his time in hiding, Zarybin salvaged one of the army's banners.

Meeting Pugachev

In August 1773, Zarybin returned to Yaik and contacted his former comrade, Timofey Myasnikov. The two embarked on a hunt, during which Chika secretly arranged a meeting with a mysterious man who showed them a banner and claimed to be Emperor Peter III.

Joining Pugachev's Forces

Chika convinced Myasnikov to follow him to meet the self-proclaimed emperor. After swearing an oath of secrecy, they were introduced to Pugachev, who asked for their support in regaining his throne. Recognizing Pugachev as an opportunity for justice and self-governance, Chika agreed to join his cause.

Military Career

Zarybin became one of Pugachev's closest advisors and held various leadership positions within the rebel army. He participated in the capture of several Yaik fortresses and fought in the battles around besieged Orenburg. In December 1773, he was sent to Ufa to organize the production of weapons.

"Count Chernyshev"

In a move to boost his authority, Pugachev granted Zarybin the title "Count Chernyshev." Zarybin used this title to lead various rebel groups in the Bashkir and Ural regions, besieging Ufa from December 1773 to March 1774.

Defeat at Chelyabinsk

Zarybin's forces failed to capture Ufa and were ultimately defeated on March 24, 1774, by General Michelson's army. Zarybin fled to the Fortress of Tabyn, where he was captured.

Capture and Execution

On March 26, Zarybin, along with several close associates, was seized by Tabyn Cossacks. An attempt to rescue him failed, and the captured rebels were transported to Orenburg, where the authorities carried out Zarybin's execution.