Karl Bulow German military leader, Field Marshal. Date of Birth: 24.03.1846 Country: Germany

1. Birth and Military Career
2. General Staff and Command Positions
3. Outbreak of World War I
4. Battle of the Marne
5. Later Career and Retirement

Birth and Military Career

Born into a noble military family, Karl von Bülow embarked on his military career in 1864, joining the elite 2nd Guards Infantry Regiment of the German Imperial Army. Rising through the ranks, he became a lieutenant in 1866 and fought in both the Austro-Prussian War and the Franco-Prussian War.

General Staff and Command Positions

In 1872, Bülow was appointed adjutant to the Inspector of Infantry Schools. From 1877 to 1885, he served in the German General Staff. After a brief stint commanding a company in the 96th Infantry Regiment, he returned to the General Staff in 1885. In 1890, he became Chief of Staff of the Guards Corps and commanded the 4th Guards Infantry Regiment from 1894 to 1897. He also served as Director of the Central Department of the War Ministry and commanded the 2nd Guards Infantry Division from 1897 to 1901.

Outbreak of World War I

With the outbreak of World War I in 1914, Bülow was appointed Commander of the 2nd Army, comprising seven corps and two landwehr brigades. As part of the Schlieffen Plan, his army played a key role in the initial advance into Belgium and France. His victories at Liège and Charleroi earned him the reputation as the "Conqueror of Belgium."

Battle of the Marne

During the Battle of the Marne, Bülow concentrated his forces on a breakthrough at the Saint-Gond marshes, creating a gap in the German line that the French exploited. Facing pressure from the advancing French 5th Army, Bülow ordered a strategic withdrawal of his troops across the Marne River.

Later Career and Retirement

After the Battle of the Marne, Bülow participated in the Battle of the Aisne and the Battle of Arras. In January 1915, he was promoted to General Field Marshal. Ill health forced him to retire from his command in April 1915, and he was awarded the Pour le Mérite for his service. After the war, he remained in retirement until his death in 1921.