Germany, Nuremberg / Russia. Token Tsar Alexander I, Barclay de Tolly, Lauer
- KOD: 4817241R
Germany, Nuremberg / Russia. Token Tsar Alexander I, Barclay de Tolly, Lauer, Brass 24 mm, weight 2,50 g., Condition VF, patina
Mikhail Barclay de Tolly (1761 - 1818).
During Napoleon's attack on Russia in 1812. Tolly commanded the 1st Western Army, the largest Russian formation that faced the front of the French advance. As a minister, the 2nd Western Army was also subordinate to him. Due to the superiority of the French troops, he successfully led an organized withdrawal of the two armies. Tolly then used a simple but effective scorched earth tactic, and also recommended drawing the enemy deeper into the country. Carrying out these plans, he withdrew to the village of Tsarovskoye Zaymishche between Moscow and Smolensk. After Napoleon's defeat, Tolly garnered accolades for his battle strategy, even though he was initially misunderstood and failed to gain recognition from the Tsar's court. However, after proving his effectiveness, he became a popular figure and gained respect from Tsar Alexander I.
source: wikipedia.org