Did the Russian Army Seize Sofia in 1829?

Authors:

Pages: 73-88
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54664/MVRB9820

Abstract:

In the final phase of the Russo-Turkish War of 1828–1829, Sofia gained strategic importance for both Russian and Turkish command. At the end of August 1829, a real threat emerged when the 40,000 troops of Mustafa Pasha Bushatli were supposed to move from Niš to Plovdiv and to attack the Russian army in the area of Edirne from behind. In order to prevent such an unfavourable outcome of the war campaign for Petersburg, General Diebitsch assigned General Geismar to head towards Sofia. On the basis of a critical analysis of the available documentary material, an attempt was made to clarify whether General Geismar managed to conquer Sofia, or the hostilities were suspended just before the city was captured.

Keywords:

Russo-Turkish War of 1828–1829; Sofia; Friedrich Geismar

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