In the history of Russia, there have been many outstanding individuals, and today we will tell you about Count Illarion Ivanovich Vorontsov-Dashkov. He was a close friend of Emperor Alexander III, an exceptional statesman, a talented military leader, a fighter against terrorism, and the Viceroy of the Caucasus.

Illarion Ivanovich Vorontsov-Dashkov was born on June 8, 1837, into one of the most respected families of the Russian Empire. He was baptized in the presence of Emperor Nicholas I and received an excellent education. His military career was impressive: thanks to his natural talent and communication skills, he not only stood out on the battlefield but also quickly became a close friend of General Field Marshal Baryatinsky, whose adjutant he served during the Caucasian Wars, and of the heir to the throne, Alexander Alexandrovich, of whom he was the chief of staff during the Russo-Turkish War. Illarion Ivanovich participated in battles in the Caucasus, Turkestan, and the Balkans. At the age of 28, he became a colonel, at 29, a major general, and by the time of the Russo-Turkish War, he was already a lieutenant general. He was a beloved figure, but his awards were well-deserved; legends of his bravery circulated, and he was not a 'capital general.'

After the assassination of Alexander II, 44-year-old Illarion Ivanovich created a secret monarchist organization called the 'Holy Brotherhood,' which included many prominent individuals, including members of the Romanov family, statesmen, and composer Tchaikovsky. The organization fought against terrorism and made a significant contribution to preventing a coup d'état. At the same time, the count headed the Imperial Court and held numerous positions, paying attention to charity and feeding dozens of homeless people in his home daily. In 1890, he received the rank of general of cavalry, led the preparations for the coronation ceremonies, and in the twilight of his life was the Viceroy of the Caucasus, commanding two Cossack armies to suppress revolutionary uprisings. Illarion Ivanovich lived a worthy life and passed away on January 28, 1916, at the age of 78.