Battle of Górzno

Part of the Polish-Swedish War (1626–1629)

Map over the battle of Górzno

Date	12 February 1629
Location	Górzno, Poland
Result	Swedish victory

Belligerents

Swedish Empire

Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth

Commanders and leaders

Herman Wrangel

Strength

2,400 (infantry)
3,600 (cavalry)
8 artillery guns

4,000 men

4 artillery guns

Casualties and losses

30 killed
60 wounded

700 killed
500 captured

The Battle of Górzno was a battle fought during the ending phase of the Polish–Swedish War (1626–1629), between Sweden and the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth on 12 February 1629. The Swedes were commanded by Herman Wrangel, and the Poles by . The battle ended with a victory for Sweden, who forced the entrenched Polish army out of their positions and retreat.

During the beginning of the year 1629, the Swedish commander Herman Wrangel started his march against Strassburg, to reinforce the stronghold which had been sieged by the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. During his march he encountered the Polish army by the village of Górzno, and the two forces went into battle formations on each side of the river (Printzel). The Swedish army started to cross the river on 12 February, without any notable resistance. This was however, mainly due to the Polish commander who wanted the whole Swedish force to get over before commencing attack; in order to handle a devastating defeat on the Swedes.

While having crossed the river, the Swedes had to march over another passing of Ruda to reach the Polish established frontlines. Wrangel decided the march to be done in column formation, hence fearing Polish cavalry assaults which could, in that case, inflict heavy casualties to the Swedes. Wrangel then started his march while having discovered the terrain to have been in Polish disadvantage if they intended to charge; the rough ground would make it hard for cavalry to act and a charge would most likely result in a failure. The Polish infantry whom guarded the crossing were after some fighting beaten, and shattered they ran against the remaining Polish lines. The Swedes could then get over with no greater difficulties.

Wrangel then established battle formations and ordered Maximilian Teuffel with his force of German reiters and musketeers to capture the village of Zaborowo – on the Swedish right respective Polish left flank. On his way there, the village was already set on fire by the Polish cavalry who were in full retreat. However, the dispersed Poles suddenly reversed their rout and charged the Swedish squadrons by the flaming village, and a fierce fighting took place. The fighting surged back and forth, It was set; this was going to be the major achievement for the day of battle. The German reiters on the Polish side soon retreated, but the Polish hussars made a courageous defense. Finally the Poles retreated as well and the left Polish flank was now opened for Swedish cavalry to assault their center.

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Wikipedia