CZIRIKOWO 1812 – THE FORGOTTEN BATTLE OF PRINCE JOSEPH

Abstract

14th of September 1812 Napoleon’s Great Army conquered Moscow and most of Bonaparte’s men had hoped that end of war is near. Unfortunately, the war lasted. Against Russian army under command of field marshal Mikhail Kutuzov Napoleon sent army group, which commander was Bonaparte’s brother-in-law, king of Naples – Joachim Murat. In this group was also Polish Vth Army Corps commanded by general prince Joseph Poniatowski. Poles actively participated in combat actions of Murat’s group. As a result of these actions there was a battle of Czirikowo, which took place 29th of September. In this battle Polish corps fought and won against Russian rearguard of general Mikhail Miloradovich. In this article presented causes, course and consequences of the battle of Czirikowo. It was also made an attempt to assess this combat against the background of other battles of Prince Poniatowski.