Miklós Perczel facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Miklós Perczel
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An engraving by Károly Rusz in the Vasárnapi Újság ("Sunday News") of 13 October 1867
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| Other name(s) | Nicholas Perczel |
| Born | December 15, 1812 Bonyhád, Kingdom of Hungary |
| Died | March 4, 1904 (aged 91) Baja, Kingdom of Hungary |
| Allegiance | Revolutionary Hungarian Army Union Army |
| Rank | Colonel |
| Commands held |
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| Battles | Hungarian Revolution of 1848
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| Other work | Politician |
Sir Miklós Perczel de Bonyhád (born December 15, 1812, in Bonyhád, Hungary; died March 4, 1904, in Baja, Hungary), also known as Nicholas Perczel, was a brave Hungarian officer and a key leader in the Hungarian Revolution of 1848. After this revolution, he moved to the United States. There, he became a colonel in the Union Army during the American Civil War, leading the 10th Iowa Infantry Regiment. He played an important part in helping to free Missouri. His older brother was Mór Perczel.
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Who Was Miklós Perczel?
Miklós Perczel was a Hungarian soldier and politician who lived a very exciting life. He fought for freedom in two different countries. First, he was a hero in his home country of Hungary. Later, he became a leader in the American Civil War.
Early Life in Hungary
Miklós Perczel was born in a town called Bonyhád, in Hungary, in 1812. He grew up in a time when many people in Europe wanted more freedom. They wanted to change how their countries were ruled. Miklós came from a family that owned land. He also had an older brother, Mór Perczel, who was also involved in politics and military life.
Fighting for Freedom: The Hungarian Revolution
In 1848, a big wave of revolutions swept across Europe. People wanted more rights and to govern themselves. Hungary was part of the Austrian Empire at the time. Miklós Perczel became one of the main leaders of the Hungarian Revolution of 1848. This was a fight for Hungary's independence. He was a brave officer in the revolutionary Hungarian Army.
Important Battles He Fought In
Miklós Perczel took part in several important battles during the Hungarian Revolution. These included the Battle of Pákozd, the Battle of Mór, and the Battle of Temesvár. These battles were crucial moments in Hungary's fight for freedom. He showed great courage and leadership on the battlefield.
A New Start in America
Sadly, the Hungarian Revolution of 1848 did not succeed. The Austrian Empire, with help from Russia, defeated the Hungarian forces. Because of his role as a leader, Miklós Perczel had to leave Hungary. He moved far away to the United States of America to start a new life. Many other Hungarian freedom fighters also moved to America during this time.
Joining the American Civil War
When the American Civil War began in 1861, Miklós Perczel decided to join the fight. He believed in freedom and justice, just as he had in Hungary. He joined the Union Army, which was fighting to keep the United States together and end slavery. Because of his military experience, he quickly became a colonel. He led the 10th Iowa Infantry Regiment.
Helping to Free Missouri
Colonel Perczel and his regiment played a very important part in the war. They helped to liberate, or free, the state of Missouri. Missouri was a border state, meaning it was caught between the North and the South. Miklós Perczel's leadership helped the Union Army gain control of key areas in Missouri. This was a big step towards winning the war.
Later Life and Legacy
After the American Civil War ended, Miklós Perczel returned to Hungary. He continued to be involved in politics. He died in 1904 at the age of 91. Miklós Perczel is remembered as a brave soldier and a leader who fought for freedom and justice in two different countries. His story shows how people can make a difference, even when facing big challenges.
