Republic of Kalmykia

Kalmyk warriors

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Information from Government of Republic of Kalmykia

The history of Cossacks dates back to the ancient history. People called “kazaks” are mentioned in the written document of the late first millennium, and the archaeological explorations allow us to trace the earlier periods of Cossack life.
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Hell’s devils: How Russia’s steppe warriors took on Napoleon’s armies

July 28, 2014 Alexander Vershinin, Special to RBTH

Direct descendants of the fearsome Mongol hordes of Genghis Khan, in the early 19th century Kalmyk cavalrymen were to play a significant role in driving Napoleon’s Grande Armée out of Russia and all the way back to Paris, with their ancient battle skills sowing confusion and terror in the French ranks. (more…)

Don Kalmyk officers during the Napoleonic War.

Kalmyk warriors in Russian Army 1812.