Casimir Pulaski

Overview

Casimir Pulaski (1745-1779) was a Polish nobleman and military commander who fought and died in the American Revolutionary War. Here’s a brief summary of his life and contributions:

Early Life:

Pulaski was born into a noble family in Warsaw, Poland in 1745. He received a military education and served in the Polish army, where he became known for his skill as a cavalry commander. However, his opposition to the Russian occupation of Poland led him to seek opportunities abroad.

American Revolutionary War:

In 1777, Pulaski arrived in America and joined the Continental Army. He quickly gained a reputation as a skilled cavalry commander and was appointed as the commander of the newly-formed Pulaski’s Legion, a unit of cavalry and infantry made up of Polish and American soldiers.

Pulaski fought in several battles, including the Battle of Brandywine and the Battle of Germantown. He was instrumental in training American soldiers in cavalry tactics and played a key role in several successful campaigns.

Death and Legacy:

Pulaski was mortally wounded while leading a charge at the Battle of Savannah in 1779. He was taken aboard a ship and died two days later from his injuries. He was buried at sea, but a monument was erected in his honor in Savannah, Georgia.

Pulaski’s contributions to the American Revolution were significant. He played a key role in training and leading American soldiers in cavalry tactics, which helped to turn the tide of several battles. He was also a strong advocate for the rights of all people, including African Americans and Native Americans, and fought against discrimination and oppression. Today, he is remembered as a hero and a symbol of the close ties between the United States and Poland.

Biographies

Katz, Brigit. “Was the Revolutionary War Hero Casimir Pulaski Intersex?” Smithsonian Magazine, April 9, 2019. https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/was-revolutionary-war-hero-casimir-pulaski-intersex-180971907/.

Siry, Steven E. Liberty’s Fallen Generals: Leadership and Sacrifice in the American War of Independence. First edition. Military Profiles. Washington, D.C: Potomac Books, 2012.

Statues and Memorials

Here are a few of the many memorials and statues commemorating the life and contributions of Casimir Pulaski to the independence of the United States. He is a symbol of the contributions of Polish immigrants to the United States. Additionally, many place names and streets are named after the Polish cavalry officer who gave his life for America.