Theodor von Reding facts for kids
Theodor von Reding (born July 5, 1755 – died April 23, 1809) was a brave Swiss mercenary who served in the Spanish Army. He was a top military leader and governor in Spain during big wars like the French Revolutionary Wars and the Peninsular War.
Contents
Theodor's Early Life and Army Career
Theodor Reding was born in Schwyz, Switzerland. His father was also a high-ranking officer in the Spanish Army. Theodor's two brothers also joined the Spanish army as mercenaries.
Theodor joined the Spanish Army when he was just 14 years old. He quickly moved up the ranks:
- In 1772, he became a captain.
- In 1781, he was promoted to lieutenant-colonel.
- By 1788, he was a colonel leading a Swiss regiment.
Fighting in Major Wars
Reding led soldiers against the French in areas like Navarre and the Basque Country. This was during a conflict called the War of the Pyrenees, which was part of the larger French Revolutionary Wars. He was hurt several times during these battles.
He continued to rise in rank:
- In 1793, he became a brigadier.
- In 1795, he was promoted to field marshal.
Reding also fought in the War of the Oranges against Portugal.
Role in the Peninsular War
When the Peninsular War began in 1808, Reding was the Governor of Málaga. In July 1808, he fought alongside General Castaños at the Battle of Bailén. His soldiers, the 3rd Swiss Regiment Reding, fought with great courage in this battle.
After Bailén, Reding became the Captain General of Catalonia. He worked hard to organize the Spanish forces there. He managed to gather 30,000 men for the war effort.
His Final Battle and Legacy
Theodor von Reding was wounded during the Battle of Valls on February 25, 1809. He was fighting against French forces led by Gouvion Saint-Cyr. He died in Tarragona on April 23, 1809, because of his injuries.
Today, many events honor Theodor von Reding. The Historical Recreation Group 3rd Swiss Regiment Reding is one of the biggest ways people remember him.
See also
In Spanish: Teodoro Reding para niños
