Ernst Põdder facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ernst Põdder
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Nickname(s) | Vana Õkva |
| Born | 10 February [O.S. 29 January] 1879 Tartu (Dorpat), Estonia, Russian Empire |
| Died | 24 June 1932 (aged 53) Tallinn, Estonia |
| Allegiance |  Russian Empire (1897–1917) Estonia (1918–1932) |
| Service/ |
Imperial Russian Army Estonian Army |
| Years of service | 1897–1932 |
| Rank | Kindralmajor |
| Battles/wars | Russo-Japanese War First World War Estonian War of Independence
|
| Awards | Cross of Liberty Order of Lāčplēsis (Latvia) |
Ernst-Johannes Põdder (born February 10, 1879 – died June 24, 1932) was a very important Estonian military leader. He played a key role in the Estonian War of Independence from 1918 to 1920.
Contents
Ernst Põdder's Early Military Career
Ernst Põdder began his military journey by graduating from the Vilnius Military Academy in 1900. He quickly rose through the ranks. During the Russo-Japanese War, he became a Lieutenant. Later, in World War I, he was promoted to polkovnik, which is a Colonel.
Joining Estonian National Units
In July 1917, Põdder joined the special Estonian military units. He became the commander of the 3rd and later the 1st Estonian regiments. By 1918, he had earned the rank of Major General.
Founding the Defence League
During the time when Germany occupied Estonia in 1918, Ernst Põdder was a brave leader. He secretly helped to create the Estonian Defence League. This was an underground group that aimed to protect Estonia.
Leading in the War of Independence
When the Estonian War of Independence began, Põdder was in charge of internal security. This meant he helped keep things safe inside the country.
Victory at the Battle of Cēsis
On April 4, 1919, Põdder became the Commander of the 3rd Division. His biggest success was leading his troops to victory against the Baltische Landeswehr. This important battle is also known as the Battle of Cēsis.
After the War
After Estonia won its independence, Põdder continued his military service. He commanded the 3rd Division and then the 2nd Division after 1921.
Stopping a Coup Attempt
In 1924, there was an attempt to overthrow the government in Estonia. This was called the 1924 Estonian coup attempt. Ernst Põdder was very active in helping to stop this attempt.
Later Life and Achievements
In 1926, Põdder became a permanent member of the war council. He also helped organize the Scout Movement in Estonia. He was the only honorary member of the League of Liberators. For his bravery, he received the Latvian military Order of Lāčplēsis, 2nd class. He also received the Cross of Liberty from Estonia.
