Warrior
He was born on February 13, 1745, in the village of Burnakovo, Yaroslavl Province, into a family of pious nobles. His father, Fyodor Ignatievich, served in the guard and participated in the war with the Turks, but after the birth of his third son, he was discharged from military service. The future admiral's upbringing was influenced by his uncle, the Reverend Fyodor of Sanaksar, who became a monk.
From childhood, he exhibited fearlessness and a desire for physical development. At the age of sixteen, he entered the Naval Cadet Corps in St. Petersburg, where he studied successfully and graduated as one of the best. After graduation, he served in the Baltic Fleet and was later transferred to the Azov Flotilla.
In 1775, under Empress Catherine II, the creation of the Black Sea Fleet began. In 1783, Fyodor Ushakov arrived in Kherson, where he faced a cholera epidemic. Thanks to his organizational skills and care for his subordinates, the cholera was contained within his team.
For his successful actions, he was promoted to captain of the first rank and awarded the Order of St. Vladimir. In 1787, Turkey declared war on Russia, and Ushakov, commanding the Black Sea Fleet, achieved victory in several battles, including the battle near Fidonisi Island, where his tactical skills and bravery played a decisive role.
In 1790, after the victory at Cape Kaliakria, Ushakov was awarded the Order of St. Alexander Nevsky. After the war with Turkey ended, he focused on restoring the fleet and building ports, showing concern for the sailors and their living conditions.
In 1793, he was summoned to St. Petersburg, where Empress Catherine II awarded him a gold cross with relics of saints. In 1796, under Emperor Paul I, Ushakov received orders to bring the Black Sea Fleet to combat readiness to defend Russia's southern borders.
In 1798, he began the famous Mediterranean campaign, during which he liberated the Ionian Islands from the French, gaining the support of the local population. His wisdom and mercy towards the liberated peoples made him a great military leader and benefactor.
