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Szymon Marcin KossakowskiPolish statesman
Country:
 Poland |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Political Career
- Anti-Monarchist Activities
- Reconciliation and Russian Support
- Targowica Confederation and Leadership
- Proclamation as Field and Grand Hetman
- Kościuszko Uprising and Execution
- Burial
Early Life and Education
Józef Kossakowski was born in Poland as the youngest of four sons to Dominik Kossakowski. He received his education at the Jesuit college in Kovno and the University of Königsberg.
Political Career
Early Involvement and Bar ConfederationKossakowski initially supported King Stanisław August, but later criticized him at the Repnin Sejm and joined the Bar Confederation. He was forced to flee to Prussia after the advance of Russian troops in 1768.
Anti-Monarchist Activities
While abroad in Saxony and Turkey, Kossakowski worked to overthrow Stanisław August. Upon his return, he led Confederation forces in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and achieved victories against Russian forces.
Reconciliation and Russian Support
In 1775, Kossakowski reconciled with the king and became a leader of the pro-Russian faction. He served as a general-major in the Russian army during conflicts with Turkey in the Balkans.
Targowica Confederation and Leadership
Organizing and LeadingKossakowski played a key role in organizing and leading the Targowica Confederation. In 1792, his Russian-commanded corps invaded the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth from Polotsk.
Proclamation as Field and Grand Hetman
After Russian forces captured Vilnius in January 1792, Kossakowski proclaimed himself Field Hetman of Lithuania. In 1793, he became Grand Hetman of Lithuania.
Kościuszko Uprising and Execution
During the 1794 Kościuszko Uprising, Kossakowski was arrested on April 24 and sentenced to death the following day. He was hanged on a gallows in the Town Hall Square, wearing a yellow dressing gown.
Burial
Kossakowski was buried in the crypt of the Church of St. James the Apostle in Jonava.
