New! 290 years ago Sasko-Russian troops captured Gdańsk

wbijamszpile.pl 1 year ago

Gdańsk, known for its strategical position on the Baltic Sea, has always been an crucial point on the map of Europe. 1 of the most memorable moments in his past is the capture by Sasko-Russian troops 290 years ago, in 1734, during the war for Polish succession.

This story, however, is not only about battles and war strategies, but about the determination, hope and dramatic twists of action that took place in the walls of this historical city.

Fighting for the throne after the death of August II

After the death of August II in 1733, the throne of Poland became the subject of a dispute between 2 candidates: Stanisław Leszczyński, supported by France and Sweden, and Frederick August Sas, boy of the late king, supported by Russia and Austria.

Gdansk, as an crucial city, became an arena for these events.

Gdańsk opposition Strategy

Gdańsk, remembering erstwhile experiences, decided to support Stanisław Leszczyński. The city began to prepare intensively for defence, gathering supplies and strengthening fortifications. The War Council was headed by Mayor Gabriel Bömeln, and General von Bittinghofen was entrusted with command over the city's defence.

Beginning of the Siege

In early February 1734, Russian troops led by General Piotr Lacy stood under the walls of Gdańsk, demanding the surrender of the city and the release of Stanisław Leszczyński. The Gdansk War Council rejected these demands, deciding to fight, despite the immense disparity of forces.

Key clashes and defence

General Lacy began the siege, however, the deficiency of dense artillery prevented the fast capture of the city. Gdansking, hoping for aid from France, carried out diplomatic activities, but without much success.

The situation changed erstwhile command of the Russian army was taken over by Field Marshal Burchard von Münnich, who intensified the siege, gaining key fortifications around the city.

Hope and the Dramatic Escape of Leszczyński

The hope of Gdansk rose erstwhile a rescue came from France in May 1734 at Westerplatte. However, tiny French forces failed to break into the city and capitulated in June. Stanisław Leszczyński, realizing the hopeless situation. On the night of 27 to 28 June 1734 he escaped from Gdańsk in disguise of a peasant, heading to Prussia.

Capitalation of Gdańsk

After the surrender of the fortress in Wisłoujście, the City Council of Gdańsk decided to start negotiations with the Russians. On July 7, 1734, an act of surrender was signed. Under his power, the city had to recognise August III as king of Poland and pay a immense contribution.

Consequences – won by Gdansk

The siege of Gdańsk in 1734 ended with the surrender of the city, but its inhabitants showed large courage and determination. Stanisław Leszczyński yet waived his claims to the Polish throne in 1736. Unfortunately, Gdańsk active had to rebuild after dense losses.