About the book: 2020 / For many years, Alexander Khristoforovich Benkendorf (1782-1844) was perceived only as a persecutor of the great Pushkin, as well as as the chief of the gendarmes and the chief of III Branches of His Imperial Majesty's Own Chancellery. And it was not mentioned at all that Alexander Khristoforovich was a military general, distinguished by courage, courage and many years of impeccable service, and little was known about his personal life. Presented to the attention of readers are the memoirs of A.Kh. Benckendorf not only tells about his military journey and years of public service, but also sheds light on his personal family life, gives an idea of ​​the author’s character, his hobbies and beliefs. Materials discovered after the death of A.Kh. Benckendorf in his desk, divided into two portfolios with records relating to the reigns of Alexander I and Nicholas I. The first volume of memoirs includes materials relating to the period of the reign of Alexander I (1802–1825). The publication is equipped with rich illustrative material.