In the article, we raise the theme of charity and patronage of the arts in pre-revolutionary Russia. In the center of attention is the life and activity of two patrons of the arts in the late 19th century, Innokentii M. Sibiryakov and Alfons L. Shanyavskii, who gave all their energy and means for developing Russian education, science and culture. For example, the charitable activities of I.M. Sibiryakov were connected with the opening of two institutions of higher education – the Bestuzhev and Lesgaft courses. In addition, thanks to Sibiryakov’s scholarships, at least 70 young people received access to higher education and the opportunity to join the ranks of intelligent workers needed by Russian society. The result of the patronage activities of A.L. Shanyavskii was the emergence of the Women’s Medical Institute in Saint Petersburg and the Moscow City People’s University. The aim of his life was to promote scientific and technical progress in Russia, to acquaint people with the necessary knowledge. Using historical and biographical method, based on archival materials, personal documents and memories of contemporaries, we recreate the history of the lives and activities of millionaires, the social roles of which were closely linked to the fate of the Fatherland. The conclusion is that patronage of the arts is a form of active patriotism, and the charity of two remarkable people can serve as an example for modern entrepreneurs and wealthy people
Keywords
charity, I.M. Sibiryakov, A.L. Shanyavskii, patronage of the arts, Russian education, Russian culture