Stoletov was a Russian officer associated with the Bulgarian volunteers. Shipka controlled a route through the Balkan Mountains. In August 1877 the defenders had to hold their positions until reinforcements arrived. Russian documents use the Julian calendar; the story identifies the corresponding dates explicitly. Commanded Russian troops and Bulgarian volunteers. Organised the defence of the pass. Faced attacks by Süleyman Pasha’s army. The defence involved units and volunteers, beyond the actions of one commander.
History of Bulgaria
