Quick Facts
Hero of two hemispheres. Fought for American and Polish freedom.
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Life Journey
Tadeusz Kościuszko was born to a noble family in the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth, in the village of Mokra, Minsk Voivodeship.
Kościuszko begins his education at the Crown School in Lubieszów, where he receives a classical education and military training.
Kościuszko is admitted to the Warsaw Corps of Pages, an elite military academy, where he studies military engineering and tactics.
Kościuszko graduates from the Warsaw Corps of Pages and is commissioned as a military engineer, setting the foundation for his future military career.
Kościuszko arrives in Philadelphia and offers his services to the Continental Army, beginning his involvement in the American Revolutionary War.
Kościuszko designs the fortifications at Bemis Heights, which play a crucial role in the American victory at the Battle of Saratoga.
Kościuszko is promoted to the rank of colonel and appointed as the chief engineer of the Continental Army, overseeing fortifications and strategic planning.
Kościuszko returns to Poland after the end of the American Revolutionary War, bringing with him valuable military experience and engineering skills.
Kościuszko commands Polish forces in the Polish–Russian War, leading the defense against Russian invaders and demonstrating his tactical expertise.
Kościuszko leads the Kościuszko Uprising, a national insurrection against Russian and Prussian forces, inspiring widespread support among the Polish people.
Kościuszko is severely wounded and captured by Russian forces during the Battle of Maciejowice, marking a turning point in the uprising.
Kościuszko is released from Russian captivity and travels to the United States, where he is welcomed as a hero and honored for his contributions.
Kościuszko returns to Europe and settles in Solothurn, Switzerland, where he continues to advocate for Polish independence and social reform.
Tadeusz Kościuszko dies in Solothurn, Switzerland, leaving behind a legacy as a hero of both the American Revolutionary War and the Polish struggle for independence.