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Georg Von DerfflingerBrandenburg Field Marshal
Date of Birth: 20.03.1606
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Military Career
- Service to Brandenburg
- Battle of Warsaw
- Senior Leadership
- War with Sweden
- Later Life
Early Life and Education
Georg von Derfflinger(1606-1695) was born into poverty in the Upper Austrian village of Neuhoefen. Despite his lack of formal schooling, Derfflinger later became known as one of the few literate officers of his rank during his time.
Military Career
At the outset of the Thirty Years' War, Derfflinger left his home and served in various armies, starting as a cavalryman under Count Turenne. In 1622, he became an officer in the Saxon army, and in 1627, he joined the Swedish forces, where he remained until 1646. As a полковник, he distinguished himself in battle and was promoted to the rank of general.
Service to Brandenburg
In 1654, Elector Frederick William of Brandenburg, recognizing Derfflinger's reputation as an accomplished cavalry commander, invited him to join his army. Derfflinger was appointed commander of the cavalry, where he proved his exceptional abilities. He reorganized the troops and established several new cavalry regiments.
Battle of Warsaw
In 1656, Derfflinger led the Brandenburg cavalry to victory at the renowned three-day Battle of Warsaw. He stormed the fortified monastery of Priment and expelled the invading Polish general Czarniecki from Neumark.
Senior Leadership
In 1670, Derfflinger was promoted to Field Marshal General. In 1674, Holy Roman Emperor Leopold I granted him the title of imperial baron (Reichsfreiherr). Despite his advanced age, he continued to serve Prussia with remarkable energy and initiative.
War with Sweden
During the war with Sweden, Derfflinger's cavalry played a crucial role. He led a daring raid on Rathenow, defeated the Swedish forces at Fehrbellin (June 18, 1675), and inflicted another defeat upon them at Splitter, near Tilsit, in 1679.
Later Life
Derfflinger participated in the campaign against Louis XIV in 1690. In 1646, he married Margarete Tugendreich von Schapelow and acquired her estates. His only son, Friedrich, fell in battle against the Turks at Budapest in 1686. His daughters married into old Prussian noble families such as Marwitz and Zieten.
