ORDER OF BATTLE // August 29, 1813
Battle of Kulm
Estimated force strength by side, with confidence labels per surviving record.
Forces engaged
2 sides catalogued · combined 47,000–53,000 estimated
France
32,000–37,000
Medium-confidence figure
Russia
15,000–16,000
Medium-confidence figure
Battle context
The Battle of Kulm, fought on 29–30 August 1813 in northern Bohemia, ended in a decisive defeat for the French corps under Vandamme. Surrounded by Kleist's Prussians striking the French rear while Russian and Austrian reinforcements pressed the front and left, Vandamme's force suffered losses of between 13,000 and 25,000 men and 82 guns — a crippling blow to French strength in the campaign. The engagement checked a French thrust that had threatened the Allied armies operating in Bohemia during the War of the Sixth Coalition. In recognition of those who distinguished themselves, Frederick William created a dedicated award, the Kulm Cross, marking the battle's place in Prussian military memory.
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