General Anatoly Stessel

General Anatoly Stessel was a Russian military officer and administrator, best known for his role during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878. He served as the commander of Russian forces in the region of Ottoman-controlled Samos Island, which he chose to defend rather than surrender when the Ottoman army advanced. His decision to hold out led to the surrender of the Russian position under siege, and he was later court-martialed for failing to follow orders, accused of negligence. Despite his military career, he became controversial due to this event, highlighting the complexities of wartime leadership and accountability.