Augustus of Prussia Prince of Prussia, Prussian commander of the Napoleonic Wars, infantry general Date of Birth: 19.09.1779 Country: Germany

1. Early Life and Military Career
2. Napoleonic Wars
3. Artillery Reorganization and Field Commands
4. Distinguished Service at Kulm and Leipzig
5. Triumphs in the 1814 Campaign
6. Preparing for the Final Campaign
7. Post-War Years and Legacy

Early Life and Military Career

Prince August of Prussia was born on August 19, 1779, to Prince Ferdinand of Prussia and Princess Louise of Brandenburg-Schwedt. As the son of Frederick the Great's younger brother, August belonged to the Prussian royal family. He joined the Prussian army at a young age and commanded a grenadier battalion in Berlin by 1801.

Napoleonic Wars

August played an active role in the Napoleonic Wars. He commanded grenadier battalions at the Battle of Auerstadt in 1806 and was captured at the capitulation of the Prussian army at Prenzlau. Imprisoned in France, he was released after the Treaty of Tilsit in 1807.

Artillery Reorganization and Field Commands

Upon his return to Prussia, August was appointed Chief of Artillery and oversaw its reorganization. He received the Order of St. Andrew the First-Called in 1809 and commanded the combined mobile artillery in 1813. As a general-lieutenant, he led the 12th Infantry Brigade in the Battle of Dresden.

Distinguished Service at Kulm and Leipzig

At Kulm, August personally led a bayonet charge with the 11th Infantry Regiment, carrying the banner in his hands. He also distinguished himself at the Battle of the Nations, earning recognition for his bravery.

Triumphs in the 1814 Campaign

In 1814, August fought successfully at Champeaubert and later commanded a division. He participated in battles at Laon, Claye, and Paris, replacing Kleist as commander of the 2nd Army Corps in April 1814.

Preparing for the Final Campaign

After Napoleon's return to France in 1815, August prepared siege forces for the upcoming campaign. He planned the sieges of Maubeuge, Landrecies, and other fortresses, earning the Russian Order of St. George, 2nd Class.

Post-War Years and Legacy

Following the peace treaty, August resumed his role as Inspector General of Artillery. He was one of the largest landowners in Prussia, but upon his death without heirs, most of his land passed to the Prussian state, with a small portion going to the Radziwill family through his sister, Louise. Prince August was buried in the Berlin Cathedral.

Despite his numerous illegitimate children, Prince August's memory lives on through the Auguststraße in Berlin's Mitte district, named in his honor.