Christoph Wilhelm von Kalckstein facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Christoph Wilhelm von Kalckstein
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Born | 17 October 1682 Ottlau, near Marienwerder, |
| Died | 2 June 1759 (aged 76) Aschersleben |
| Allegiance |  Prussia |
| Service/ |
Army |
| Rank | field marshal |
| Battles/wars | War of Austrian Succession |
| Awards | Order of the Black Eagle Equestrian statue of Frederick the Great |
Christoph Wilhelm von Kalckstein (born October 17, 1682 – died June 2, 1759) was an important figure in Prussia. He was a count, a high-ranking military leader called a field marshal, and he even taught the future King Frederick the Great.
Early Military Life
Christoph Wilhelm von Kalckstein was born in a place called Ottlau, near Marienwerder. This area was part of Ducal Prussia. His family had a history in the region.
In 1702, Kalckstein started his military career. He joined a special group of soldiers called the Hesse-Kassel Grenadier Regiment. He fought in the War of the Spanish Succession in 1704. During this war, he became an assistant to Prince Frederick of Hesse-Kassel. This prince later became King Frederick I of Sweden.
In 1709, Kalckstein joined the Prussian Army. He quickly became a Major in the King's own special regiment. He was a brave soldier. In 1712, he captured the citadel of Moers with only 300 men. He also fought against Sweden in the Great Northern War in 1715. He was promoted to lieutenant colonel on November 15, 1715.
Teaching the Future King
Kalckstein was promoted to Colonel on August 17, 1718. After this, he received a very important job. He was chosen to be the teacher and guide for the Prussian crown prince, Frederick.
At this time, there was a disagreement between King Frederick William I and his son, Prince Frederick. Kalckstein tried to help them get along better. However, he was also told to keep a close eye on the young prince. Kalckstein stayed in this important role until January 25, 1729. He left the position after his wife, Christophera Erna Lukretia Brandt von Lindau, passed away.
Later Military Career
After his time as a royal educator, Kalckstein continued his military service. He became the Commander in Chief of an Infantry Regiment. He was promoted to Major General on May 2, 1733, and then to Lieutenant General on February 3, 1741.
From November 5, 1736, he also oversaw the Charité hospital in Berlin. This shows he had responsibilities beyond just the military.
During the Silesian Wars, Kalckstein fought in several important battles. These included the Battle of Mollwitz, the Battle of Chotusitz, and the Battle of Hohenfriedberg. He became the Governor of the Fortress Glogau. He also received a high honor, the Order of the Black Eagle. On May 24, 1747, he reached the highest military rank: Generalfeldmarschall, or Field Marshal.
In 1758, Crown Prince August William died. King Frederick II then asked Kalckstein to take on another teaching role. He became a guardian and teacher for the future King Frederick William II and his brothers.
Christoph Wilhelm von Kalckstein died in Berlin on June 2, 1759. He was buried at the Berlin Garnisonkirche, which was a special church for soldiers.
