The monument of Felix Dzerzhinski in Minsk in Minsk

Many historical figures still spark debates about the correctness or incorrectness of their actions. Unfortunately, not all historical evidence and records have survived to this day, leaving many aspects of their lives shrouded in mystery. One such figure, who undeniably played a significant role in the history of the Soviet Union and Belarus but remains somewhat of an enigmatic personality, is Felix Edmundovich Dzerzhinsky.

The Formation of Dzerzhinsky's Personality

Felix Edmundovich was born in the Dzerzhinovo estate, located in what is now the Volozhin district of the Minsk region. His family belonged to the wealthy Polish nobility. Despite his privileged background, young Dzerzhinsky displayed radical views from an early age, which shaped his future.

He began his education at a gymnasium but was unable to complete it as he was sentenced to three years of exile for revolutionary activities. During this period, he actively participated in the Lithuanian Social Democratic Organization, openly opposing the Russian monarchy.

Revolutionary Activities and Influence on History

Until 1917, Felix Dzerzhinsky was repeatedly arrested for participating in anti-government movements in Warsaw, Kaunas, and Vilnius. Almost his entire youth was spent in prisons and exile, which only strengthened his ideological beliefs.

After the October Revolution of 1917, he took key positions in the newly created Military Emergency Commission (VChK), which was later transformed into the KGB. For this reason, he is often referred to as the founder of Soviet intelligence services.

Besides his work in the VChK, Dzerzhinsky served as People's Commissar for Internal Affairs and Transport and chaired the commission for improving children's lives. At the same time, he actively supported the policy of "Red Terror" and fought against counter-revolutionary movements. He died in 1926 and was buried at the Kremlin Wall.

Monuments and Historical Legacy

Regardless of the role Felix Dzerzhinsky played in history, his figure remains significant. Several monuments in his honor exist in Minsk, the most famous of which is located on Komsomolskaya Street.

In 1947, in honor of the 70th anniversary of the revolutionary, a monument was erected near the State Security Committee building. It was created by renowned sculptor Z. I. Azgur and architect V. M. Volchek. The monument features a bronze bust mounted on a granite pedestal, adorned with a decorative relief garland.

This monument is well-known not only in Belarus but also beyond its borders. Although it is not included in standard tourist routes, many visitors to Minsk seek to see it in person.

Excursions in Minsk: Historical Heritage

For tourists interested in the history of Belarus and the Soviet era, Minsk offers a variety of fascinating sightseeing tours. During excursions in Minsk, visitors can explore significant landmarks associated with Felix Dzerzhinsky, as well as other monuments dedicated to the country’s revolutionary past.