Siege of Metz

Infobox Military Conflict


caption=
partof=the Franco-Prussian War
conflict=Siege of Metz
date=September 3 – October 23 1870
place=Metz, France
result= Decisive Prussian victory
combatant1=flagicon|Prussia|1803 Prussia
combatant2=flagicon|France France
commander1=Prince Friedrich Karl
commander2=François BazainePOW
strength1=134,000
strength2=180,000
casualties1=unknown
casualties2=180,000 surrendered|

The Siege of Metz lasting from September 3 – October 23 1870 was a crushing defeat for the French during the Franco-Prussian War.

After being defeated at the Battle of Gravelotte, Marshal Bazaine, retreated into the defenses of Metz. There he was besieged by the Prussian Second Army lead by Prince Friedrich Karl on September 3. The French attempted to break the siege first at Noiseville and again at Bellevue but were repulsed each time. Although no call for help was made, the French Army of Châlons under the command of Marshal Mac-Mahon was nevertheless ordered to reinforce Bazaine. Marching to Metz, the Army of Châlons was trapped and destroyed at the Battle of Sedan. Bazaine was forced to surrender his entire army on October 23 1870. Prince Friedrich Karl and the Prussian Second Army were now free to move against the French force in the Loire River area.

ources

*Howard, Michael "The Franco Prussian War" ISBN 0-415-26671-8