Portrait of Vasily Perovsky

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Count Vasily Alekseevich Perovsky (1794–1857) was an imperial Russian general and statesman who left an indelible mark on history. After completing his studies at Moscow University, Count Perovsky joined the emperor's retinue in 1811. During a pivotal moment in his career, he was taken prisoner by the French while retreating toward Moscow after the Battle of Borodino. He remained captive until the fall of Paris in 1814. Count Perovsky suffered serious wounds during the 1828 war with Turkey. His unyielding spirit and determination ultimately led to his appointment as military governor of Orenburg in 1833. In 1839, Count Perovsky spearheaded an invasion of the Khanate of Khiva, driven by a desire to free Russian slaves captured and sold by Turkmen raiders from the Russian frontiers on the Caspian Sea. This bold move was also motivated by a strategic attempt to extend Russia's borders while the British Empire was preoccupied with the First Anglo-Afghan War. Count Perovsky's expeditionary force consisted of 5,200 infantry and 10,000 camels. Despite poor planning and a dash of bad luck, they embarked on their perilous journey in November 1839, braving one of the worst winters in memory. Forced to turn back in February 1840, they returned to Orenburg in May, having suffered over 1,000 casualties, mostly due to cold and disease. Count Perovsky's Aral Flotilla made a significant impact during the 1850s. One of the steamers was proudly named after him. In 1842, Count Perovsky relinquished his position as Orenburg governor but was recalled in 1851. This time, his military campaigns in central Asia (present-day Kazakhstan) against the Khanates of Khiva and Kokand yielded remarkable results. Following his troops' successful capture of the Kokand fortress of Ak-Mechet in 1853, the fort was rechristened Fort-Perovsky in his honor. Count Perovsky's triumphs compelled the Khanate of Khiva to sign a treaty with Russia in 1854, favoring the latter. His outstanding achievements earned him the title of count in 1855.