Weissenfels

1 May, 1813

Wanting to impose battle upon Russia's General Wittgenstein, Napoleon Bonaparte sent two reinforced corps to try to force his hand near Lutzen.

Under Marshals Bessieres and Ney, the French advanced across horse-friendly terrain and presented a tempting target to General Winzingerode's cavalry.

The Russians attacked but the French troops, who included many inexperienced conscripts, did themselves proud as they fought off the cavalry.

Unfortunately, for France, Bessieres was killed when struck in the chest by a cannonball. He would be missed the next day at the battle of Lutzen.