Frederick Louis, Prince of Hohenlohe-Ingelfingen (b. 1746)

Frederick Louis, Prince of Hohenlohe-Ingelfingen (German: Friedrich Ludwig Fürst zu Hohenlohe-Ingelfingen), born on 31 January 1746, emerged as a prominent Prussian general during a pivotal era in European history, eventually passing away on 15 February 1818. A scion of one of Germany's ancient and distinguished noble houses, his military career was deeply intertwined with the fate of Prussia, particularly during the tumultuous Napoleonic Wars.

As a member of the House of Hohenlohe-Ingelfingen, a branch of the princely Hohenlohe family that held Imperial immediacy until 1806, Frederick Louis inherited a legacy of status and service. He began his military career early, gaining valuable combat experience through participation in significant conflicts such as the Seven Years' War (1756-1763) and the War of the Bavarian Succession (1778-1779). His steady rise through the ranks reflected a career marked by dedication and command responsibility within the Prussian army.

However, it was his command during the catastrophic campaign of 1806 against Napoleon that most indelibly marked his place in history. Frederick Louis was entrusted with a crucial role, commanding the left wing of the main Prussian army at the infamous Battle of Jena on 14 October 1806. This engagement, fought concurrently with the Battle of Auerstedt, resulted in a devastating defeat for Prussia, effectively shattering its military power.

In the chaotic aftermath of Jena-Auerstedt, Prince Hohenlohe-Ingelfingen found himself leading a significant portion of the shattered Prussian forces in a desperate retreat northwards. Despite his attempts to rally and reorganize his demoralized troops, he was cornered by superior French forces under Marshal Joachim Murat. On 28 October 18006, facing overwhelming odds and encirclement, Prince Frederick Louis was compelled to surrender his entire corps of approximately 10,000 to 12,000 men at Prenzlau. This mass capitulation dealt a crippling blow to Prussian resistance and is often cited as a critical factor in the rapid collapse of the kingdom's defenses against Napoleon's Grande Armée.

Following his release from French captivity in 1808, Frederick Louis retired from active military service, a career that had spanned over five decades. While his early service showed promise, his ultimate legacy became inextricably linked to the military disasters of 1806, representing a stark turning point for Prussia and a testament to the might of Napoleonic France.

Frequently Asked Questions about Frederick Louis, Prince of Hohenlohe-Ingelfingen

Who was Frederick Louis, Prince of Hohenlohe-Ingelfingen?

Frederick Louis was a distinguished Prussian general and a member of the princely House of Hohenlohe-Ingelfingen. He is primarily known for his command during the Napoleonic Wars, particularly his involvement in the Battle of Jena and the subsequent surrender at Prenzlau in 1806.

What was his role in the Napoleonic Wars?

He commanded the left wing of the main Prussian army at the Battle of Jena on 14 October 1806. Following the Prussian defeat, he led a retreating force that was ultimately forced to surrender at Prenzlau, a significant event in the collapse of Prussia's resistance against Napoleon.

When did Prince Hohenlohe-Ingelfingen live?

He was born on 31 January 1746 and passed away on 15 February 1818.

What is the significance of the surrender at Prenzlau?

The surrender of Prince Hohenlohe-Ingelfingen's corps at Prenzlau on 28 October 1806 was a major strategic defeat for Prussia. It dramatically reduced the remaining strength of the Prussian army after Jena-Auerstedt, contributing significantly to the swift and comprehensive French victory over Prussia in 1806.