MILITARY IRKUTSK: XVII-XVIII CENTURIES
The article reveals the history of the Irkutsk garrison in the XVII-XVIII centuries, which became an integral part of the history of Irkutsk, Eastern Siberia and Russian Imperial army. From the very beginning, Irkutsk became the administrative center of the Baikal region. Later, he played a significant role in the development of land in the far East. Many sea and land expeditions planned in St. Petersburg were provided in Irkutsk with personnel (employees, specialists, craftsmen), provisions and material resources. The author examines the history of the Irkutsk prison, which existed from 1661 to 1796. For a long time, the basis of the Irkutsk garrison was made up of Cossacks, and units of the regular Russian army came to Irkutsk only half a century after the construction of the prison. A significant role in the military history of Eastern Siberia was played by the Irkutsk Arsenal, the main purpose of which was to provide garrison units with firearms and cold weapons, as well as ammunition. The artillery garrison team performed the duties of the artillery servants of the few guns and maintenance personnel of the Arsenal. According to the author, the activities of the Irkutsk geodetic and navigation school and the Admiralty team deserve special attention. Graduates of the school were intended for service in officer positions as navigators, surveyors, translators, mining engineers. The Admiralty team was engaged in preparing equipment and equipment for sea expeditions. In addition, the expedition teams were equipped with the personnel of this unit. The article traces the dynamics of the number, structure, combat readiness and combat capability of units and divisions of the Irkutsk garrison over two centuries.