Friedrich Wilhelm von Seydlitz

Friedrich Wilhelm Freiherr von Seydlitz: The Cavalry General Who Changed Warfare

Imagine a time when cavalry charges were the heart of battle, where a single officer could turn the tide with his intuition and courage. This is the story of Friedrich Wilhelm Freiherr von Seydlitz, one of Prussia’s greatest cavalry generals.

The Early Years

Was Seydlitz born into a life of privilege or did he rise through sheer talent? Born in Kalkar to a major of the Prussian cavalry, Seydlitz’s father retired and moved the family to Schwedt. Here, young Seydlitz learned to ride well by his seventh year, setting the stage for his future military career.

The Mentorship

Under the guidance of Margrave Frederick William of Brandenburg-Schwedt, Seydlitz’s horsemanship and recklessness made him stand out. At 14, he joined the court of the Margrave as a page, where his exceptional skills caught the eye of King Frederick William.

The Early Battles

Commissioned as a cornet in 1740, Seydlitz faced challenges early on but quickly rose through the ranks. His first major battle was at Hohenfriedberg, where he demonstrated his leadership and courage, earning him rapid promotions to captain and then major.

The Legendary Battles

How did Seydlitz become a legend in his own time? At the Battle of Rossbach, his cavalry routed the French and Imperial armies. His coup d’œil and ability to assess battlefield situations intuitively were key to his success.

The Battle of Rossbach

‘When he threw his pipe away, this was the signal they had waited for: the first line of massed squadrons surged forward, smashing the unprepared French in the flank.’ This quote from historian Christopher Duffy captures Seydlitz’s brilliance. His cavalry charges were not just one but multiple, demonstrating a level of tactical flexibility that was revolutionary.

The Battle of Leuthen

What role did Seydlitz play at Leuthen? At the Battle of Leuthen, his cavalry played a crucial role in crushing the Habsburg and Imperial left flank. His leadership and courage were instrumental in Frederick the Great’s victory.

The Legacy

How did Seydlitz’s legacy live on after his death? After the Seven Years’ War, Seydlitz became inspector general of the cavalry in Silesia. His name was included on the Equestrian statue of Frederick the Great in Berlin, honoring those who had helped to build the Prussian state.

The Final Illness

What were the final days like for Seydlitz? In his last illness, Frederick and Seydlitz met again at Seydlitz’s home. The King sat beside his sickbed, horrified at Seydlitz’s condition, but Seydlitz would not look at him; the illness had already deformed his face. Eventually paralyzed, Seydlitz died in November 1773.

Friedrich Wilhelm Freiherr von Seydlitz’s legacy lives on as a symbol of military brilliance and courage. His innovative tactics and leadership continue to inspire military strategists today, proving that even in the face of adversity, one can leave an indelible mark on history.