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Karl Friedrich Wilhelm GersdorffSaxon lieutenant general, participant in the Napoleonic Wars.
Date of Birth: 16.02.1765
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Karl Friedrich von Gersdorff
- Military Career
- Napoleonic Wars
- Torgau Fortress
- Campaigns of 1812-1813
- Battle of Leipzig
- Trial and Exoneration
- Post-War Career
- Legacy
Karl Friedrich von Gersdorff
Early Life and EducationKarl Friedrich von Gersdorff was born on February 16, 1765, in Glossen, Saxony. He received his education at the Prince's School in Grimma and Leipzig and Wittenberg Universities.
Military Career
In 1785, Gersdorff joined the Saxon army as a non-commissioned officer. He gained combat experience in the campaigns of 1792-1797 against Revolutionary France.
Napoleonic Wars
During the campaign of 1806, Gersdorff participated in the Battle of Jena. After Saxony's alliance with France, he was promoted to Major and appointed as Acting Chief of Staff to General Polentz's detachment besieging Danzig.
In 1809, Gersdorff was promoted to Major General and appointed Chief of Staff of the Saxon corps dispatched under the command of Marshal Bernadotte against Austria. For his distinguished service in this campaign, Gersdorff was awarded the Order of the Legion of Honour. He was appointed Chief of the General Staff of the Saxon Army and played an active role in reorganizing the army and organizing the defense of Saxon borders.
Torgau Fortress
Under Gersdorff's insistence and personal supervision, the fortress of Torgau was constructed in 1811. On June 30, 1812, he was promoted to Lieutenant General.
Campaigns of 1812-1813
During the campaigns of 1812 in Russia and 1813 in Germany, Gersdorff accompanied his King on the marches. After the Battle of Lützen, he returned to Dresden.
Battle of Leipzig
Amidst Napoleon's setbacks, Gersdorff faced the challenging task of forming infantry troops during the Poischwitz Armistice. He played a significant role in the Battle of Leipzig but was taken prisoner.
Trial and Exoneration
Upon his return from captivity, Gersdorff was accused of the Saxon troops' poor performance in the battle. He successfully defended his innocence.
Post-War Career
Gersdorff was subsequently appointed Adjutant General and in 1817, Inspector General of Reserve Troops. In 1821, he was tasked with reorganizing the Dresden Cadet Corps, which he accomplished successfully. On September 16 of the following year, he was appointed Director of the Corps.
Legacy
Karl Friedrich von Gersdorff died in Dresden on September 15, 1829. His most notable work is "Introduction to the Teaching of Military History." His two letters to General Gérard, protesting Napoleon's accusations of cowardice against Saxon troops at Wagram, remain an intriguing piece of military literature.
