The collection of documents "M.P. Lazarev" contains materials on the life and work of this famous Russian scientist-navigator and major naval figure. The documents cover the scientific work of M.P. Lazarev in the field of exploration of the Southern Arctic Ocean and the discovery of Antarctica, his activities to strengthen the Black Sea Fleet, which he turned into one of the best sailing fleets in the world, as well as to create a special school for the education and training of officers and sailors, which gave the Russian fleet such wonderful naval commanders as Nakhimov, Kornilov, Butakov and others.