The monographs examined the materials of the investigative and judicial. proceedings in the case of Pugachev and his associates - leaders and participants in the Peasant War of 1773-1775. Much attention is paid to the consideration of the circumstances of the investigation over Pugachev in the Yaitsky town, Simbirsk and Moscow. It can be seen from the documents how significant the impact on the course of the investigation was exerted by Catherine II, especially during the days of the Moscow search. The most important place in the book is occupied by the problems of studying the interrogation protocols of Pugachev and his associates. Specific examples demonstrate the methodology for establishing the degree of reliability of investigative testimony, methods of biographical attribution of the persons mentioned, methods for establishing and clarifying dates, etc.