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Johann Karl Kolovrat-KrakowskyCount, Austrian Field Marshal
Date of Birth: 21.12.1748
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Content:
- Birth and Early Life
- Military Career
- War against the Ottomans & Distinguished Service
- First Coalition War & Artillery Leadership
- Second Coalition War & Siege of Kehl
- Rise to Prominence and Military Commands
- Bohemian Army & Napoleonic Wars
- Feldmarschall & Retirement
- Honors and Legacy
Birth and Early Life
Johann Karl Graf von Kolowrat-Krakowsky was born on December 21, 1748, in Prague, Bohemia. He descended from a prominent Czech noble family.
Military Career
War of Bavarian Succession & Early PromotionsKolowrat-Krakowsky joined the military in 1766 and became a captain in 1768. He served in the War of Bavarian Succession (1778-1779). In 1786, he became a lieutenant colonel and subsequently served in the war against the Ottoman Empire (1787-1791).
War against the Ottomans & Distinguished Service
During the war against the Ottomans, Kolowrat-Krakowsky distinguished himself at the siege of Belgrade (1789), where he captured Turkish artillery and compelled the fortress to surrender. He was promoted to major general and became a brigade commander.
First Coalition War & Artillery Leadership
In the First Coalition War (1792-1797), Kolowrat-Krakowsky commanded the 2nd Artillery Regiment and later the entire artillery of the army under Field Marshal Clairfait. He earned recognition for his abilities and was promoted to lieutenant field marshal in 1796.
Second Coalition War & Siege of Kehl
During the Second Coalition War (1798-1801), Kolowrat-Krakowsky led the siege artillery at the fortress of Kehl and was awarded the Order of Maria Theresa, Second Class.
Rise to Prominence and Military Commands
After the resignation of Feldzeugmeister Kray, Kolowrat-Krakowsky became the commander of the defeated army in Germany. He was promoted to Feldzeugmeister and fought in the Battle of Hohenlinden (1800). In 1801, he was appointed the chef of the 36th Infantry Regiment and a member of the Hofkriegsrat (war council).
Bohemian Army & Napoleonic Wars
In 1803, Kolowrat-Krakowsky became the commander of the Bohemian Army. He fought against the French in the 1805 campaign, and his corps suffered heavy losses at the Battle of Austerlitz. In 1809, he played a significant role at the Battle of Regensburg and the Battle of Wagram.
Feldmarschall & Retirement
His distinguished service earned him the promotion to field marshal in 1809. Unfortunately, due to health issues, he was unable to participate in further military operations. During the Sixth Coalition War, he devoted his efforts to organizing hospitals and assisting wounded soldiers from both sides.
Honors and Legacy
In May 1816, Kolowrat-Krakowsky was awarded the Order of Leopold, First Class. He passed away on June 5, 1816, in Prague, leaving behind a legacy of military excellence and humanitarianism.
