BATTLE // September 23, 1813
Battle of Roßlau
Source · Wikipedia
Significance
The Combat of Roßlau saw Michel Ney attack the Swedish bridgehead on the Elbe in an attempt to prevent the Army of the North from crossing the river. Although the Swedish commander Sandels launched a counterattack that drove the French back roughly 5 km, he was ultimately forced to retire, leaving the engagement without a clear strategic outcome. Casualties were recorded at approximately 350 for the Swedes and 600 for the French. The battle produced no strategic effects on the broader campaign of the Sixth Coalition, but it stands as one of the rare instances in the war when a Swedish force was fully committed to a pitched engagement.
Tactics
Ney directed a French attack against the Swedish bridgehead at the Elbe. Sandels responded with a counterattack that pushed the French back approximately 5 km before Swedish forces were themselves compelled to withdraw.
Forces & casualties
Troop strength
- French Empire7,000–8,000medium
- Sweden4,000–4,500medium
French Empire fielded a 1.8 : 1 numerical advantage
Commanders (2)
French Empire
Michel NeyMarshal of the Empire
Sweden
Johan August Sandelsfältmarskalk
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