Solovetsky Monastery Uprising, which took place from 1668 for 1676 to date is one of the most remarkable events in the Russian history.The uprising was organized by the monks who abandoned the innovations of Patriarch Nikon.
Solovetsky Monastery Uprising: Causes
For a start it is worth noting that the Solovetsky monastery in the early 17th century became an important military facility in connection with the Russian-Swedish war.After all, it was well fortified building that allows you to protect the earth from invading enemies.In addition, every person who lived in a monastery or beside him, was armed and well-trained to defend themselves from attack.By the way, while the population was 425 people.And in case of siege by the Swedish army in the monastery store huge amount of food stocks.
first aroused discontent of clergy reform of Patriarch Nikon, who condemned the Old Believers.In 1636, in the Solovetsky Monastery was sent a whole lot of new, corrected according to the reform of books on worship.But the monks did not even looking at the books, out of a sealed chests and sent to storage in the armory.This was the first expression of discontent bodies of government.
It should also be recalled that the beginning of the 17th century was accompanied by a constant mass uprising against the government and innovations.It was a turbulent time, when even the smallest changes can develop into a real rebellion.And the Solovetsky Monastery Uprising did not become an exception to the general laws.Some historians have tried to put up resistance to the revolt of the monks as the ignorant clerics and followers of the old faith.
Solovetsky Monastery Uprising and fighting
actually participated in the rebellion is not only the monks of the Solovetsky Monastery.They were joined by runaway soldiers, disgruntled peasants and followers of Stepan Razin.After this replenishment uprising has already acquired a certain political significance.
worth noting that the first few years of little or no military actions have been taken.King had hoped for a peaceful solution to such a sensitive issue.For example, the government troops are moving to the Solovetsky Islands in summer only.A few months they have tried, albeit unsuccessfully, to block communication with the mainland rebellious monks.Once the advancing cold, the troops moved in Sumy jail.Interestingly, most of the archers just blossomed home.This relatively peaceful position was maintained until 1674.
That in 1674, the government found that the walls of the monastery tucked Kozhevnikov, Sarafanov Razin and other brothers in arms.Since then began these attacks, which were accompanied by sacrifices.The government has allowed active hostilities, including the bombardment of the monastery walls.
In December 1675 the monks decided no longer to pray for the king.This "innovation" is not liked all the rebels, so some of them had to sign for a while in a monastery prison.
Solovetsky Monastery Uprising: results
Despite the constant, non-stop siege saps and shelling, government forces have not managed to penetrate the walls of the monastery.In January 1677 the rebels left the monk Teoctist, who immediately went to the king's troops.It was he who told how to sneak into the monastery.
night the first of February and fifty archers quietly entered through a small hidden hole (the window for carrying water) into a drying room of the monastery.Then the soldiers opened the gates and let the rest of the troops.
In the yard of 30 rebels were trying to repel the attack, but to no avail - the fight was unequal.Interestingly, to this day the walls of the monastery of monks is almost gone - some of them left the house without permission, while others were expelled.Several priests have been imprisoned at the monastery - they set free the government troops.
Thus, the Solovetsky Monastery Uprising ceased.As a result, he was executed about 30 rebels, the others were sent to prison.
