Battle of Dahlenkirchen facts for kids

The Battle of Dahlenkirchen happened on August 22, 1812. It was a fight during the big French invasion of Russia led by Napoleon. This battle took place near the village of Dahlenkirchen, which is southeast of Riga in what was then the Russian Empire.

In this battle, the Russian army, with about 6,000 soldiers, fought against a smaller force of French and Prussian troops, who had around 1,500 soldiers. The Russians won this important battle.

Quick facts for kids Battle of Dahlenkirchen
Part of the French invasion of Russia
Painting by Nikolay Samokish
Date 22 August 1812 Location village southeast of Riga on the left bank of the Daugava, Russian Empire 56°56′34″N 24°05′48″E / 56.9428°N 24.0966°E / 56.9428; 24.0966 Result Russian victory
Belligerents
French Empire Prussia	Russian Empire
Commanders and leaders
Jacques MacDonald Julius von Grawert	Magnus Gustav von Essen
Strength
1,500 8 cannons	6,000
Casualties and losses
800	300

The Battle Begins

Map showing army positions in Courland during Summer 1812

On August 22, 1812, the Russian army launched a surprise attack. They targeted the Prussian forces. These Prussian soldiers were allies of the French. The attack happened on the Prussians' right side. This area was near the villages of Dahlenkirchen and Olai.

At the same time, the Russians also attacked the Prussian left side. These attacks took place at Schlock and St. Annen.

Prussian Retreat

The Prussian commander, Colonel Horn, was completely surprised by the Russian attack. His troops fought back for a while. However, they were forced to retreat.

Even though the Prussians managed to stop some of the Russian attacks, they couldn't hold Dahlenkirchen. They had to give up the village because they couldn't defend it anymore. This was a win for the Russian army.

What Happened Next

The Battle of Dahlenkirchen was part of a larger event. This was the siege of Riga. The French and their allies were trying to capture the city of Riga. However, this siege continued for a long time. It was not successful for the French and their allies. The Russians held onto Riga.

See also

• List of battles of the French invasion of Russia