Decembrists Exonerated by Investigative Commission: Sublieutenant A. M. Golitsyn
https://doi.org/10.24224/2227-1295-2025-14-10-466-488
Abstract
This publication focuses on a topic that has not been covered by historiography — the Decembrists who were found to be uninvolved with secret societies during their trial process. It continues a series of articles about understudied and overlooked participants of the Decembrist movement. A critical analysis is conducted using evidence from investigative materials, including previously unpublished records related to A. M. Golitsyn's case. The reliability of witness testimonies is evaluated. Special attention is given to the defense strategy employed for the accused as well as the role played by family connections in reaching an acquittal decision. Memoir sources are analyzed, indicating the officer’s involvement in clandestine activities and events surrounding December 14th, 1825. An attempt is made at reconstructing A. M. Golitsyn's participation in the Decembrist conspiracy. Analysis of documents and unaccounted-for testimonials demonstrates that the investigation did not fully consider available statements nor possess complete information regarding this officer's engagement within the Decembrist organization. It is hypothesized that significant influence over the exoneration verdict was exerted through familial ties, particularly those embodied by A. N. Golitsyn — a high-ranking official close to the imperial family and member of the Investigating Committee. Ultimately, the author concludes that A. M. Golitsyn belonged among the participants of the Decembrist movement who escaped punishment.
About the Author
P. V. Ilyin
St. Petersburg Institute of History Russian Academy of Sciences
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Pavel V. Ilyin, PhD in History, senior research scientist
Saint Petersburg
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Review
For citations:
Ilyin P.V. Decembrists Exonerated by Investigative Commission: Sublieutenant A. M. Golitsyn. Nauchnyi dialog. 2025;14(10):466-488. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.24224/2227-1295-2025-14-10-466-488
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