[2]: 118 The division took part in the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-78, during which it participated in the battles of Łowicz and Plevna.

During 1902 and 1903, Anton Denikin served as an adjutant with the division's staff.

[4][5] The division fought in the Battle of Tannenberg in late August 1914, under the command of Alexander Dushkevich.

On 26 August, the 7th Revel Infantry Regiment of its 2nd Brigade suffered losses of 3,000 men, three-quarters of its strength, and was wiped out as a combat unit.

[6]: 166  On the next day it was again attacked by the German 37th Infantry Division and "collapsed", retreating to Neidenburg.