Stanisław T. Rybicki’s work was of immense significance at the time of its publication (1916, during World War I). At that time, under German and Austro-Hungarian occupation, a cult of the 1863 insurgents was legally resurging in Warsaw, intended to stir national spirit in anticipation of the coming independence. The book provides a detailed analysis of Chmieleński’s military engagements and his uncompromising stance toward the enemy.
Zygmunt Chmieleński was born on December 21, 1833, in Warsaw (the village of Barcząca is also sometimes cited as his place of birth). He was an officer in the Tsarist army, from which he deserted to join the Polish independence forces.
He served as military commander of the Kraków Province. He made a name for himself as a commander with extraordinary tactical acumen and strict military discipline.
He commanded Polish units in battles such as those at Przedbórz, Janów, Oksa, and Mełchów (where Adam Chmielowski, who fought under his command and later became his brother Albert, was wounded).
After the defeat at the Battle of Bodzechów, he was captured by the Russians, sentenced to death, and executed by firing squad on December 23, 1863, in Radom.
96 pages
