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Lützen


Battle Name : Lützen

Date(s) : 02 May 1813

Part of : The French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars , Napoleon's Leipzig Campaign ,

Outcome : A victory for French & Allied Forces over Russo-Prussian Forces

Type of battle : Land

Summary

The Allies attempted to take Napoleon's army in the flank as it advanced on the city of Leipzig. Ney's corps was hardest hit but managed to hold on until Napoleon organized his other corps. About 1800hrs, after a long hard fought day, Napoleon massed his artillery against the allied centre and blasted a way through which was immediately exploited by the Guard and III Corps. The Allies fell back in good order. The Russo-Prussians were superior in cavalry but failed to exploit this, however it did ensure their retreat was well covered.

Location

The town of Lützen lies about 14 miles west-south-west of the city of Leipzig, Germany. The battle area extended to the south east of Lützen. (Germany)

Casualty figures

French & Allied Forces

Number engaged :
78,000

Casualties :
19,655 (25.20%)

Russo-Prussian Forces

Number engaged :
70,000

Casualties :
12,000 (17.14%)