Battle of Cassano

General Suvorov at the battle by river Adda on April 27, 1799 (painted by Luigi Schiavonetti)
Historical Overview
The Battle of Cassano was fought in 1799 from 27 to 28 April near Cassano d'Adda, which about 28 km (17 mi) ENE of Milan. The clash is part of the battle of the Adda River or the so-called forcing of the Adda, which on the first day of 26 April resulted in a minor victory for the Russians under the Count Suvorov over Barthélemy Schérer's French forces at Lecco. Then, on the second day, Suvorov's Austrians and Cossacks prevailed over Jean Moreau's army, who replaced Schérer as supreme commander, and trapped his isolated division on the third. The action took place during the War of the Second Coalition, as part of the larger conflict known as the French Revolutionary Wars. Moreau was not entirely responsible for his defeat, much of the responsibility for which lies with Schérer, who overextended his troops and failed to exploit the advantages of his position.
Quick Facts
Russia & Austria
- Commander: Suworow
- Strength: ca. 28.000
- Casualties: ca. 2.000
French Republic
- Commander: Moreau
- Strength: ca. 24.000
- Casualties: ca. 5.000
Strategic Context
Russian-Austrian offensive to recapture Italy.
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Historical Locations
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