Karl Philipp, Prince of Schwarzenberg (d. 1820)

Karl Philipp, Fürst zu Schwarzenberg, often known in English as Charles Philip, Prince of Schwarzenberg (born 18 or 19 April 1771, died 15 October 1820), was a distinguished Austrian field marshal whose career unfolded amidst the dramatic backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars. A member of one of Bohemia's most ancient and powerful noble families, his lineage and position provided him with both diplomatic and military opportunities from a young age, preparing him for the complex political and martial landscape of early 19th-century Europe.

His early military service saw him gain experience, but it was in the major conflicts against Napoleonic France that his reputation was forged. A significant early engagement was the Battle of Wagram in July 1809. Here, he fought valiantly for the Austrian Empire, yet despite the courage of his troops, the battle concluded in a decisive defeat for Austria at the hands of Emperor Napoleon's Grande Armée. This loss forced Austria into a difficult peace and, for a time, into an uneasy alliance with France.

A Shifting Tide of Alliances and Battles

The geopolitical landscape of Europe during this period often dictated unexpected allegiances. In 1812, as Napoleon embarked on his ill-fated Russian Campaign, Austria was compelled by treaty obligations to contribute a corps to the French invasion force. It was in this paradoxical situation that Prince Schwarzenberg found himself leading the Austrian contingent. He commanded these forces in the Battle of Gorodechno (also known as Gorodechna or Poddubno) in August 1812, where his corps achieved a victory against the Russian forces under General Tormasov. This triumph, however, was a result of circumstances rather than a reflection of Austria's long-term strategic interests, as the Austrian command, including Schwarzenberg, covertly maintained a degree of strategic distance from Napoleon's main objectives, conserving their strength.

The fortunes of war, however, soon turned decisively against Napoleon. By 1813, Austria had rejoined the coalition against France, and Karl Philipp, Fürst zu Schwarzenberg, was appointed the supreme commander of the Allied Army of Bohemia, comprising forces from Austria, Russia, Prussia, and later Sweden. This was a testament to his strategic acumen and diplomatic skill, given the challenge of coordinating such a multinational force. His leadership culminated in the monumental Battle of Leipzig, fought from 16 to 19 October 1813. Often referred to as the "Battle of the Nations" due to the sheer number of combatants and nations involved, Leipzig was a colossal engagement that saw the Allied forces deliver a crushing and decisive defeat to Napoleon. This victory marked a critical turning point in the Napoleonic Wars, breaking Napoleon's power in Germany and paving the way for the invasion of France.

Following the triumph at Leipzig, Schwarzenberg continued to lead the Allied armies in the invasion of France. In March 1814, he spearheaded the advance that culminated in the Battle of Paris. The successful capture of the French capital directly led to Napoleon's first abdication on April 6, 1814, effectively ending his reign and bringing a temporary close to the protracted conflicts that had engulfed Europe for over a decade. Prince Schwarzenberg's strategic command and diplomatic skill in holding together a diverse coalition were instrumental in these final victories. He passed away on 15 October 1820, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most significant military figures of the anti-Napoleonic coalitions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Karl Philipp, Fürst zu Schwarzenberg

Who was Karl Philipp, Fürst zu Schwarzenberg?
He was a prominent Austrian field marshal and diplomat, born in 1771, who played a crucial role in the Napoleonic Wars, particularly in leading the Allied forces against Napoleon in 1813-1814.
What was his most significant military achievement?
His most significant achievement was his command of the Allied Army of Bohemia at the Battle of Leipzig in October 1813, where he led a coalition of forces to a decisive victory over Napoleon, a battle often called the "Battle of the Nations."
Why did he fight for Napoleon at one point?
In 1812, Austria was compelled by treaty to ally with France. As part of this alliance, Prince Schwarzenberg commanded the Austrian contingent that fought alongside Napoleon's Grande Armée during the Russian Campaign, achieving a victory at the Battle of Gorodechno.
What role did he play in the final defeat of Napoleon?
He was the supreme commander of the main Allied army (the Army of Bohemia) that delivered decisive defeats to Napoleon at Leipzig (1813) and subsequently led the forces that captured Paris in 1814, which directly led to Napoleon's first abdication.
When and where did he die?
Karl Philipp, Fürst zu Schwarzenberg, died on 15 October 1820, in Leipzig, coincidentally the city where he achieved his greatest military triumph.