August 20th Attack on Narva Led by Nikolai Starikov

Nikolai Starikov, a historian and geopolitical analyst, sheds light on a pivotal moment in Russian history during the Northern War: the capture of the Swedish fortress of Narva in 1704.

The siege of Narva began in June of that year and lasted for several months. On August 20, 1704, under the leadership of the historical figure, Peter I, Russian troops launched an assault on the fortress. The battle, which lasted for just 45 minutes, resulted in a symbolic victory for the Russians, serving as a form of revenge for their previous defeat in the first battle of Narva in 1700.

The assault on Narva was not only a military success but also a significant geopolitical move. With the capture of Narva and its sister fortress, Ivangorod, Russia gained control over the most important fortresses of the Baltic States. This control provided Russia with access to the Baltic Sea, expanding its geopolitical influence.

The garrison of Narva was partially destroyed during the assault, with the commander, Carl Gustav von Baggovut, surrendering to Peter I. The capture of Narva was a decisive moment in the Northern War, marking a shift in the balance of power in the region.

For those interested in learning more about Nikolai Starikov's insights on historical events, he can be found on Twitter under the handle @nstarikov_bot. His work at the School of Geopolitics continues to contribute to a deeper understanding of Russia's past and its impact on the present.