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August GneisenauPrussian Field Marshal (1825).
Date of Birth: 27.10.1760
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- August Neidhardt von Gneisenau
- Prussian Service
- Anti-French Sentiments and Extermination
- Victories in the Napoleonic Wars
- Command in the Waterloo Campaign
- Later Career and Death
August Neidhardt von Gneisenau
Early Life and Military CareerAugust Neidhardt von Gneisenau was born into an Austrian noble family on October 27, 1760, in Schilda. He received his education at a Jesuit school in Würzburg and the University of Erfurt. In 1778, he joined the Austrian hussar regiment of Wurmser and later transferred to the forces of Alexander, Margrave of Ansbach-Bayreuth.
In 1782, he was promoted to second lieutenant and transferred to a jäger battalion under the assumed name of "Gneisenau." He participated in an expedition to North America before returning to the Ansbach contingent in Europe.
Prussian Service
In 1785, Gneisenau left the Ansbach service and joined the Prussian army as a premier-lieutenant on January 1, 1786. He was granted permission to use the name "Neidhardt von Gneisenau" by royal decree on February 18, 1786. He distinguished himself in the 1806 campaign and was promoted to major in November.
In April 1807, he was appointed commandant of the fortress of Kolberg, which he successfully defended against the French. After the war, Gneisenau played a key role in reorganizing the Prussian army. He was promoted to colonel in 1809.
Anti-French Sentiments and Extermination
However, Gneisenau's open anti-French sentiments led to his dismissal on July 1, 1809, at the behest of France. He left Prussia and visited England, Sweden, and Russia before returning in 1813.
Victories in the Napoleonic Wars
Upon his return, Gneisenau was promoted to major general and appointed quartermaster general of the Silesian army under Field Marshal Gebhard von Blücher. He played a significant role in the Prussian army's successes, particularly at Katzbach and Leipzig. He was promoted to lieutenant general after the Battle of the Nations.
Command in the Waterloo Campaign
In the 1815 campaign, Gneisenau again served as Blücher's chief of staff. After the defeat at Ligny, he assumed command of the army in Blücher's absence and played a crucial role in securing victory at Waterloo.
Later Career and Death
After the war, Gneisenau was appointed commander of the 8th Prussian Corps. In 1818, he became governor of Berlin and a member of the State Council. He died of cholera on August 24, 1831, while leading an observation army during the Polish uprising.
