Born in 1782, Madatov’s military career started at the dawn of the new century. Leaving his homeland in an effort to enlist the help of Russian political authorities against Muslim control of the territory, Madatov – probably unbeknownst to him at the time – was about to start a life of unpredictable and conspicuous adventures, like little human beings in history. In the Russian-Turkish wars, Madatov’s experience would deeply enlarge, and his bravery and profound sense of commitment and duty would decorate him with many honors, and this proceeded throughout his life. Soon, he had a profoundly important role in the Napoleonic wars, more specifically when the French troops invaded Russia. Soon afterwards, he would be a leading instrumental figure in the military offensive to attack the French empire.
Always progressing in the military ranks, he fought and witnessed several battles, being ostensibly injured in several of them. He also had an enormous role during the Russian conquest of the Caucasus, since he was deeply familiarized with all aspects of the region: languages, tribes, customs and geography.
An intelligent, articulate and tireless general, Valerian Madatov was the personification of dedication. Formidably disciplined and with a strong sense of purpose, he was mostly victorious and successful in practically all the military operations in which he was engaged.
When the Persians attacked a Russian stronghold in the Caucasus upon which Madatov was the leader, being a sagacious, confident and experienced military strategist, he managed to succeed in one of the most implausible battles of the time, defeating an army of 10.000 Persians, with a brigade of only 2.000 men. Nonetheless, this only intensified the strife, and both political powers called reinforcements, to continue their belligerent dispute.
Surprisingly, the Russians again inflicted over the Persians another humiliating defeat, forcing them to retreat, for once and for all, which favored Madatov with another military promotion.
Madatov’s military career would end in another war against the Turks. A little before the end of the war and the signing of a peace treaty, Madatov died unexpectedly, from natural causes, approximately forty seven years old. His mortal remains were buried in a cemetery in Saint Petersburg.
Wagner