Mikhail Ilarionovich Kutuzov

Mikhail Ilarionovich Kutuzov , 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.

Kutuzov, Mikhail Ilarionovich, Prince of Smolensk (1745–1813) Russian field-marshal. He distinguished himself in the Russo-Turkish War (1806–12), bringing Bessarabia into Russia. He commanded the Russian armies in the wars against Napoleon and was forced to retreat after the defeat of BORODINO (7 September 1812). Kutuzov's decision to disperse in the face of the advancing grande armée undermined Napoleon's plans for a swift victory, and forced him to retreat from Moscow before the severe Russian winter.