Ferdinand Wintzingerode

Russian General
1770 -1818

A soldier and diplomat, Ferdinand Winzingerode initially fought the French as an officer for Austria before joining Tsar Alexander's staff.

With his knowledge of the Austrian army he proved invaluable in his new position and, as the Tsar planned war with France, was sent back to Vienna to coordinate preparations.

He fought at Austerlitz, but was captured by the French, and when released earnt the Tsar's displeasure by loudly opposing the Treaty of Tilsit between France and Russia.

Recalled to face the French invasion in 1812, Winzergerode was again captured but was rescued while on his way to Paris.

In 1813, he led a Russian corps with the Swedish army and fought at Leipzig.

Advancing into France he was beaten by Napoleon Bonaparte - the French emperor's second-last victory - at St Dizier.