Bogislav Friedrich Emanuel von Tauentzien
A steadfast Prussian commander whose defensive tenacity at the siege of Breslau became a legendary chapter in the Napoleonic Wars.
1760–1824 (age 64)·Birthday: September 15
Biography
Bogislav Friedrich Emanuel von Tauentzien was a career soldier born into a military family, his life defined by the struggle against Napoleon. He rose through the ranks during the fraught period following Prussia's devastating defeat at Jena-Auerstedt. Tauentzien's moment of fame came during the War of the Sixth Coalition. In 1813, as commander of the Prussian garrison in the Silesian fortress of Breslau (modern Wrocław), he withstood a prolonged siege by French and allied forces. His stubborn defense pinned down significant enemy resources and became a symbol of Prussian resilience, boosting allied morale. After the war, he was honored with the title 'von Wittenberg' for his service. While not a flashy tactician, Tauentzien embodied the dogged spirit that allowed the Prussian state to survive, reorganize, and ultimately help bring down the French emperor.
#1 When Bogislav Was Born
The biggest hits of 1760
Bogislav's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1760Born
1765Started school
1773Became a teenager
1776Could drive
1778Could vote
1781Turned 21
1790Turned 30
1800Turned 40
1810Turned 50
1820Turned 60
1824Died at 64
Key Achievements
- Successfully defended the fortress of Breslau against a prolonged French siege in 1813 during the War of the Sixth Coalition.
- Was awarded the honorific 'von Wittenberg' by King Frederick William III of Prussia for his military service.
- Achieved the rank of General of the Infantry in the Prussian army.
Did You Know?
He was the son of the Prussian General Friedrich Bogislav von Tauentzien.
The Tauentzienstraße, a major shopping street in Berlin, is named in honor of his father, not him.
He was a recipient of the Iron Cross, 1st Class, and the Order of the Red Eagle.
“My sword served Prussia, but my pride was taken at Jena.”
