Strelitz, or properly Streltzi (“arquebuzziers”). The ancient Russian militia-guard, first raised by Ivan Vatsilevitch the Terrible, in the second half of the 16th century. At that time and for long afterwards, they were the only standing army in Russia, and at times amounted to between 40,000 and 50,000 men. They were located at Moscow in time of peace, in a quarter of the Capitol which was set apart for them, and being the bravest and most trustworthy troops in the army, were made objects of special favor and distinctions. But like all such petted corps, the Roman [Prætorians], the Turkish Janissaries, and the Egyptian Mamelukes, their general turbulence, frequent revolts against the government (notably during the Demetrian insurrections), and incessant conspiracies, rendered them more formidable to the Russian government than to external enemies. The Strelitz having, at the instigation of the Grand Duchess Sophia and the chiefs of the Old Muscovite party, revolted against Peter the Great, that iron-handed ruler caused them to be decimated (1698) in the great square of Moscow, and the remainder to be banished to Astrakhan. The feeble remnant still manifesting their characteristic turbulence and disloyalty, Peter exterminated them almost completely in 1705. Few Russian families at present can claim kindred with the old Strelitz, but to this the family of Orloff forms a prominent exception, being descended from a Strelitz who was pardoned by Peter the Great while the axe was being raised over him.
Strength. This word may be variously understood in military matters. It means fortification; strongholds, etc. It likewise signifies armament; power; force. In all returns which are made of corps, strength implies the number of men that are borne upon the establishment, in contradistinction to [effective force], which means the number fit for service.
Stretcher. A litter or frame for carrying sick, wounded, or dead persons.
Strict. Exact, severe, rigorous; the contrary to mild, indulgent. Hence, a strict officer. It is sometimes used in a bad sense, to signify a petulant, troublesome commander.
Striegau. A town of Prussia in Silesia, 29 miles southwest from Breslau. The Austrians were defeated by the Prussians under Frederick the Great near this town in 1745.
Strife. Contention in battle;, contest; struggle for victory; quarrel of war.
Strike. This word is variously used in military phraseology; as, to strike a tent, is to loosen the cords of a tent which has been regularly pitched, and to have it ready, in a few minutes, to throw upon a baggage-wagon. To strike terror into an enemy, is to cause alarm and apprehension in him; to make him dread the effects of superior skill and valor. To strike a blow, to make some decisive effort.
Stripes. The chevrons on the coats of non-commissioned officers are sometimes so called.
Strong. Well fortified; able to sustain attacks; not easily subdued or taken; as, a strong fortress or town. Having great military or naval force; powerful; as, a strong army or fleet; a nation strong at sea.
Stronghold. A fastness; a fort or fortress; a fortified place; a place of security.