Battle of Kauhajoki facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Battle of Kauhajoki |
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| Part of the Finnish War | |||||||
 I ställningen vid Kauhajoki, by Axel Hjelm |
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| Belligerents | |||||||
 Sweden |
 Russian Empire |
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| Commanders and leaders | |||||||
| Georg Carl von Döbeln |
Dmitri Dmitrijevitš Šepelev |
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| Strength | |||||||
| 2,250 | 1,150 | ||||||
| Casualties and losses | |||||||
| 67 killed, wounded or captured | 200 killed, wounded or captured | ||||||
The Battle of Kauhajoki was a fight between Swedish and Russian soldiers. It happened on August 10, 1808, in a place called Kauhajoki in Finland. This battle was part of a bigger conflict known as the Finnish War. The Swedish forces won this battle.
Contents
The Finnish War: A Quick Look
The Finnish War was a big conflict that took place between 1808 and 1809. It was fought between Sweden and the Russian Empire. At that time, Finland was part of Sweden. The war ended with Finland becoming a part of Russia.
Why Did the War Start?
The war began because of political tensions in Europe. Russia, led by Emperor Alexander I, wanted to expand its power. Sweden, led by King Gustav IV Adolf, was trying to protect its lands. The war was also linked to the Napoleonic Wars happening across Europe.
The Battle of Kauhajoki Unfolds
The Battle of Kauhajoki happened after an important Swedish victory at the Battle of Lapua. The Swedish army was feeling confident. They were led by a brave commander named Georg Carl von Döbeln.
Who Was Involved?
- Swedish Forces: About 2,250 soldiers, led by Georg Carl von Döbeln.
- Russian Forces: About 1,150 soldiers, led by Dmitri Dmitrijevitš Šepelev.
The Swedish army had more soldiers than the Russian army in this particular battle.
What Happened During the Battle?
On August 10, 1808, the Swedish troops under von Döbeln met a Russian force near Kauhajoki. The battle was fierce, but the Swedish soldiers fought well. They managed to defeat the Russian force.
The Outcome of the Fight
The Battle of Kauhajoki was a clear victory for Sweden.
- Swedish Losses: About 67 soldiers were killed, wounded, or captured.
- Russian Losses: About 200 soldiers were killed, wounded, or captured.
This victory helped the Swedish army continue their fight in the Finnish War. However, despite this win, the overall war eventually led to Finland becoming part of Russia.
