Gebhard Leberecht von Blücher
A relentless Prussian commander whose timely arrival at Waterloo sealed Napoleon's final defeat, earning him the nickname 'Marshal Forward'.
1742–1819 (age 77)·Prussian field marshal·Birthday: December 16
Biography
Gebhard Leberecht von Blücher's military career was a story of survival and stubborn resolve. Born into a family of minor nobility, he entered Swedish service as a hussar before switching to the Prussian army, where his aggressive cavalry tactics and personal bravery became his trademarks. His path was not smooth; after a defeat in 1806, he was captured by the French and spent years in a bitter, inactive simmer. The Wars of Liberation saw his triumphant return. In his seventies, Blücher commanded the Prussian forces with a fiery energy that belied his age, driving his men forward in a personal crusade against Napoleon. His most decisive moment came in June 1815. After a crushing defeat at Ligny, he rallied his battered army and, against all odds, marched to join Wellington at Waterloo. That arrival, late in the day, broke the French lines and changed European history. In Prussia and across Germany, he was instantly vaulted into the status of a national hero, a symbol of dogged determination.
#1 When Gebhard Was Born
The biggest hits of 1742
Gebhard's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1742Born
1747Started school
1755Became a teenager
1758Could drive
1760Could vote
1763Turned 21
1772Turned 30
1782Turned 40
1792Turned 50
1802Turned 60
1812Turned 70
1819Died at 77
Key Achievements
- Led the Prussian Army of Silesia to a decisive victory at the Battle of Leipzig in 1813, a pivotal moment in the defeat of Napoleon.
- His forced march to the Battle of Waterloo in 1815 provided the crucial reinforcement that turned the tide against Napoleon's forces.
- Was promoted to the rank of Generalfeldmarschall for his service during the Napoleonic Wars.
- Awarded the title of Prince of Wahlstatt by King Frederick William III of Prussia after the wars.
Did You Know?
He was known for his superstition, believing he was pregnant with an elephant after the Battle of Ligny, a delusion caused by trauma.
Blücher had a profound fear of being captured again, which fueled his aggressive 'forward' tactics.
The city of Blücher, Iowa, in the United States is named in his honor.
He was a heavy user of snuff and alcohol, habits that were widely known among his troops.
“I have promised to be at Wellington’s side at six o’clock, and I will keep my word.”
