Hans Albrecht von Barfus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Hans Albrecht von Barfus
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Hans Albrecht von Barfus (copper engraving)
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| Born | 1635 |
| Died | 27 December 1704 (aged 68–69) |
| Nationality | Brandenburg Kingdom of Prussia |
| Occupation | Field marshal, prime minister |
| Known for | Brief service as Brandenburg prime minister; military victories |
Hans Albrecht von Barfus (1635 – 27 December 1704) was a very important military leader, known as a field marshal, who served the regions of Brandenburg and Prussia. He even worked as a prime minister for a short time under King Frederick I.
Contents
A Life of Service
Hans Albrecht von Barfus was born in 1635. His father was a captain in the army. Hans Albrecht started his own military career early. In 1656, he was a lieutenant and fought alongside the Swedish army during the Second Northern War.
Rising Through the Ranks
After this, Barfus began serving the Elector of Brandenburg, who was a powerful ruler. He quickly moved up the ranks in the army. Eventually, he became a colonel, which is a high-ranking officer. By the time of the famous battle of Vienna, he was a major-general. He served under King John of Poland during that important battle.
When the Elector of Brandenburg passed away, Frederick III took his place. During the Nine Years War, Barfus led Brandenburg troops. These troops worked with the Dutch army against France.
Challenges and Victories
In 1690, Barfus had a strong disagreement with another general, General von Schoning. The argument was very heated, but they were stopped before anyone got hurt. The Elector ordered both men to be arrested. General von Schoning was later removed from the army.
Even though this incident affected his reputation a little, Barfus was still given an important command. He led a group of Brandenburg soldiers to join an Austrian army. Their mission was to fight against the Ottoman Turks. Despite losing many soldiers, the German forces won the battle. Because of his bravery and leadership, Barfus was promoted to field marshal. This was a very high honor in the military.
From Soldier to Statesman
After his military successes, Barfus held several important commands. He even led a group of soldiers to protect the borders with Poland. This happened after the king of Poland died, to keep things stable.
Becoming Prime Minister
In 1699, a political leader named Eberhard von Danckelmann lost his power. Because of this, Barfus was first made the Governor of Berlin. Soon after, he became the de facto prime minister. This meant he was in charge of military, political, and money matters for the country.
People thought Barfus was very honest and could not be bribed. However, he was prime minister for only a short time. Another powerful person, Graf von Wartenburg, gained power later that year.
Royal Recognition
Even after his time as prime minister, Barfus remained important. When the Elector was crowned the first King of Prussia, Barfus traveled with him. He represented the army during this historic event. In 1701, he received the Order of the Black Eagle. This was the highest military award in Prussia at that time.
