Kutuzov, Mikhail Ilarionovich
Related Category: Russian, Soviet, and CIS History: Biographies
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f), 1745–1813, Russian field marshal. He fought against the Polish Confederation of Bar (see
Bar, Confederation of) and served in the
Russo-Turkish Wars of 1768–74 and 1787–92, in which he lost an eye. He took part (1805) in the battle of Austerlitz, which was fought against his advice. In 1811–12 he again took command against the Ottomans and defeated them in a brilliant campaign that brought Bessarabia to Russia. In Aug., 1812, Kutuzov replaced
Barclay de Tolly as commander in chief against the invading armies of
Napoleon I. Kutuzov was expected to engage the French in battle and to abandon his predecessor's delaying tactics. The battle of
Borodino was the result; after that butchery, Kutuzov resumed Barclay's wise policy of retreat, which eventually led to Napoleon's ruin. He pursued Napoleon relentlessly after the retreat of the
Grande Armée from Moscow (1812–13). He was created prince of Smolensk for a victory there late in 1812.
