Died: 9 July 1852
Biography:
Joanna Żubr (1772 or 1782 – 9 July 1852) was a remarkable Polish soldier who made history as the first woman to receive the Virtuti Militari, the highest Polish military decoration. Her journey as a brave soldier and her contributions to the Napoleonic Wars are a testament to her extraordinary courage and resilience.
Born in either 1772 or 1782, Joanna Żubr’s early life remains shrouded in mystery. However, her life took a fascinating turn when the Napoleonic Wars erupted and the Duchy of Warsaw was established in 1808. In the midst of this tumultuous period, Joanna and her husband Michał left their Austrian-ruled homeland of Volhynia and joined the army of the newly formed Duchy.
Initially, Joanna became a camp-follower, providing support and assistance to the troops. However, driven by her own determination and passion, she decided to enlist as a private in the 2nd Infantry Regiment (4th company, 2nd battalion). Joanna concealed her true identity as a woman from her superiors and fellow soldiers, undoubtedly facing numerous challenges and hardships as she navigated the male-dominated military world.
In 1809, Joanna Żubr participated in the Galician Campaign and exhibited exceptional bravery during the Battle of Zamość on 19 May of that year. Her remarkable courage caught the attention of the renowned Prince Józef Poniatowski, who awarded her the prestigious Virtuti Militari medal. This remarkable feat made Joanna the first female soldier to receive such a high military honor, and also one of the earliest women in the world to be recognized for bravery in battle.
After the campaign, Joanna joined the 17th Infantry Regiment in Dąbrowski’s Division, led by the esteemed Jan Henryk Dąbrowski. Her husband served as an ensign in the same regiment, and Joanna’s unwavering dedication and exceptional skills earned her a promotion to the rank of sergeant, making her the first woman to achieve such a rank in the Polish Army.
During Napoleon’s invasion of Russia and the subsequent campaign in present-day Belarus, Joanna and her husband’s division, renamed the Greater Polish Division, stood strong against overwhelming odds. However, amidst the chaos of battles and Napoleon’s tumultuous retreat, Joanna became separated from her division. Despite the perilous circumstances, she managed to escape from Russia on her own, demonstrating not only her resourcefulness but also her sheer determination.
In the summer of 1813, Joanna Żubr bravely made her way to Polish units in Saxony, mere weeks after Prince Józef Poniatowski’s forces had abandoned Kraków. Her exemplary service continued, and she served with distinction until the signing of the Treaty of Fontainebleau and the subsequent end of the war.
After the war, Joanna and her husband returned to Poland. However, due to the occupation of different parts of Poland by Austria and Russia, they settled in Wieluń. It was there, during a devastating cholera epidemic in 1852, that Joanna Żubr passed away at the age of approximately eighty years old.
Joanna Żubr’s extraordinary bravery as a female soldier in an era dominated by men not only set her apart but also paved the way for future generations of women to pursue their dreams and aspirations. Her legacy as the first woman to receive the Virtuti Militari, coupled with her unwavering courage and commitment to her country, solidifies her as an indomitable figure in Polish and women’s history.
Awards:
– Virtuti Militari: Joanna Żubr received the Virtuti Militari, the highest Polish military decoration. She was the first woman to be awarded this prestigious honor, a testament to her exceptional bravery and dedication to her country.