Raising Militias in 1806–1812 in the Context of Social Relationships (St Petersburg and Moscow Provinces)

The subject of this study is the social contradictions in meshchane communes district capitals early nineteenth century which transpired when recruiting men for military service. object appointment militiamen during 1806–1807 and 1812, far more were recruited than regular recruit levies. author examines three centres, i. e. Serpukhov, Novaya Ladoga, Gdov. article considers practices motivations adopted by families, communes, town councils, governors. refers to previously unpublished documents from council archives (communes’ verdicts, minutes correspondence with governors). identifies two major issues: accusations dissolute behaviour; 2) conflicts between big small households aggravated mass militia 1807. During first militia, traditional system supplying recruits commune proved insufficient meet needs war. recruits’ age, marital status, family size, reasons being nominated. A suggestion made that inclined nominate older peasant communes: role nomination as a means cleansing seems have been significant towns. reaction government delays problems arose raising identifying response measures: was revised 1808–1809 direct massive abuse recorded – establishment official groups under recruitment manual 1810. Referring levy 1812 levies 1810s, demonstrates new rules reduced conflict delay communes. Patriotic War dispatch went considerably faster Additionally, supposes changes legislation 1808–1810, century, position families secured, could be factor encouraged transition nuclear