The Battle of Sardarapat, May 1918

In May 1918, amid the collapse of the Russian Empire and the advance of the Ottoman army, the Armenians faced the threat of total destruction. Turkish troops moved deep into Eastern Armenia, aiming to seize Etchmiadzin (Vagharshapat) and Yerevan.

Under the command of General Movses Silikian, despite a severe shortage of weapons and resources, Armenian fedayi fighters routed the Turks. This victory saved Armenia and, a few days later, on 28 May 1918, made possible the proclamation of the First Republic of Armenia.

The colourised photograph shows clergymen in white vestments between two lines of soldiers. Flags are raised on the right.