Who Was Baron Frederick de Riedesel?
If you're a history buff, then you've probably heard of Baron Frederick de Riedesel. He was a German-born military officer who served in the British and American armies during the Revolutionary War.
He is most famous for his role in the Battle of Saratoga, where he and his troops played a pivotal role in defeating the Americans. In this article, we will take a closer look at Baron Frederick de Riedesel's life and career.
Early Life
Baron Frederick de Riedesel was born in 1738, in the city of Minden in the Westphalia region of Germany. His father was a colonel in the Prussian army, and his mother was the daughter of a wealthy German nobleman.
He received a military education from a young age, and he served in the Seven Years' War as a captain in his father's regiment. After the war, he married Elizabeth Mallett, the daughter of an English officer who had served under his father during the war.
The couple eventually had four children together.
The Seven Years’ War
In 1756, the Seven Years' War broke out. Baron Frederick de Riedesel served as a captain in his father's regiment during the war. He saw action in several battles, including the Battle of Rossbach and the Battle of Leuthen.
He was wounded during the Battle of Kunersdorf, and he was taken prisoner by the Russians during the Siege of Berlin. He was eventually released, and he returned to Germany after the war ended in 1763.
Baron Frederick de Riedesel's Role in the Revolutionary War
In 1776, Baron Frederick de Riedesel was approached by General John Burgoyne about leading a German regiment in the British army during the Revolutionary War.
He accepted the offer and led his troops to victory at the Battle of Saratoga, one of the most important battles of the war. After the war, he returned to Germany with his family. He died in 1800 at the age of 61.
Relationship with Thomas Jefferson
Baron Frederick de Riedesel and Thomas Jefferson had a close friendship that lasted for many years. In fact, when Jefferson was planning his trip to Europe in 1784, he specifically requested to meet with Baron Frederick de Riedesel while he was in Germany.
The two men discussed a variety of topics, including the young United States of America and its future. Baron Frederick de Riedesel was very impressed with what he saw and heard from Jefferson, and he even went so far as to say that America was "the hope of the world."
Military Prowess
Baron Frederick de Riedesel was a highly skilled military commander, and he played a pivotal role in several key battles during the Revolutionary War. He was known for his bravery and his ability to rally his troops.
He was also an excellent strategist, and he was able to adapt to changing circumstances on the battlefield.
Learn More About Baron Frederick de Riedesel
Baron Frederick de Riedesel holds a spot in history as a brilliant military strategist and as the confidant to President Thomas Jefferson. If you want to learn more about his life and career, pick up a copy of the book "Jefferson Country" today.





