Mikhail Kutuzov

Kutuzov is a surname of Russian origin, notably associated with Mikhail Illarionovich Kutuzov (1745–1813), a prominent Russian field marshal who played a crucial role in the defense of Russia against Napoleon's invasion in 1812. The surname is derived from the Russian word "кутуз" (kutuz), which refers to a type of traditional Russian footwear, though the exact origin and meaning of the surname remain uncertain. In Hebrew, the surname can be transliterated as קוטוזוב. The name is also transliterated in other languages, such as Kutuzov in French and Kutusow in German. Kutuzov's strategic brilliance and leadership during the Patriotic War of 1812 earned him a revered place in Russian military history, and his tactics, particularly the scorched-earth strategy, were instrumental in the eventual defeat of Napoleon's Grande Armée.

Wikipedia Information

Mikhail Kutuzov

Field Marshal of the Russian Empire

Prince Mikhail Illarionovich Golenishchev-Kutuzov-Smolensky was a field marshal of the Russian Empire. He served as a military officer and a diplomat under the reign of three Romanov monarchs: Empress Catherine II, and Emperors Paul I and Alexander I. Kutuzov was shot in the head twice while fighting the Turks and survived the serious injuries seemingly against all odds. He defeated Napoleon as commander-in-chief using attrition warfare in the Patriotic War of 1812. For the Battle of Krasnoi against Napoleon, Kutuzov received the victory title of Smolensky to add to his surname; the word Smolensky literally means "of Smolensk". Alexander I, the incumbent Tsar during Napoleon's invasion, would write that he would be remembered amongst Europe's most famous commanders and that Russia would never forget his worthiness.

Last modified: 2025-10-24T19:48:14ZView full article on Wikipedia