The self-defence of Van, 1915

The defence of Van was organised according to all the rules of warfare: fortifications were built, positions were prepared, and all the necessary auxiliary services were in operation. The defence was led by the experienced revolutionary Aram Manukian.

There were about 1,500 defenders of Van. Despite a shortage of weapons and ammunition, from 19 April to 18 May 1915 they held out against Turkish forces about 10 times more numerous, until Armenian volunteer detachments entered the city. Their heroism saved not only themselves but also about 40,000 Armenian inhabitants of the vilayet who had found refuge in Van.

The photograph shows a group of armed men with rifles, cartridge belts and fur hats.