Polish Cavalry vs. German Tanks: Myth or Reality?

Polish cavalry during the Battle of the Bzura

The clash between Polish cavalry and German tanks in September 1939 has long been a subject of fascination and debate among historians and military enthusiasts alike. At first glance, the question of whether Polish cavalry charged at German tanks seems to demand a simple yes or no. However, the reality is far more complex, with both “yes” and “no” being accurate under different contexts. To truly understand the intricacies of this historical event, a detailed analysis is essential, revealing the layers of strategy, misconception, and heroism that characterized the opening chapter of World War II.

German vs. Polish Strategies

In September 1939, the German and Polish armed forces represented two very different philosophies of warfare, both in terms of strategy and technology. The German Wehrmacht, benefiting from years of rearmament and doctrinal innovation, had fully embraced the concept of Blitzkrieg or “lightning war.” This approach emphasized rapid movement, coordination between air and ground forces, and the use of armored units to break through enemy lines and encircle them. The core of this strategy was the Panzer divisions, supported by waves of Stuka dive-bombers, which allowed for swift and devastating attacks. The effectiveness of the Blitzkrieg was a testament to Germany’s anticipation of modern warfare, focusing on mobility, speed, and the element of surprise.

Junkers Ju 87 during the invasion of Poland in 1939.
Junkers Ju 87 during the invasion of Poland in 1939. (Source: Wikipedia)

On the other hand, the Polish military was caught in a transitional phase, still preparing for a conflict reminiscent of the First World War, with a slower pace and heavily reliant on fortifications and infantry. Despite having modernized parts of its army, Poland’s mobilization efforts were incomplete when the invasion began. The Polish High Command had not fully realized the extent to which warfare had evolved, particularly underestimating the impact of armored and air forces in combined operations. While Poland did possess cavalry units, these were not intended to charge at tanks but to serve as highly mobile infantry. Misinterpretations and propaganda have since exaggerated these engagements, overshadowing the fact that the German army also utilized horses for logistical support, including pulling artillery. The stark contrast in readiness and understanding of modern warfare left Poland vulnerable to Germany’s innovative tactics, marking a devastating opening to World War II.

Panzer IV during the invasion of Poland in 1939.
Panzer IV during the invasion of Poland in 1939. (Source: Wikipedia)

Polish Cavalry: September 1939 Encounter

The Battle of Krojanty, fought on September 1, 1939, as part of the larger Battle in the Tuchola Forest, stands as a poignant example of the misinterpretations that have clouded our understanding of the Polish cavalry’s role in the early days of World War II. This engagement saw the Polish 18th Pomeranian Uhlans, under Commander Kazimierz Mastalerz, launch a surprise cavalry charge against a resting German infantry unit, successfully forcing them into retreat. However, the arrival of German armored cars, and opening fire with machine guns, led to Polish casualties and a forced withdrawal. The battle concluded inconclusively from a tactical standpoint, but the Germans exploited it for propaganda, showcasing the fallen Polish soldiers and their horses to suggest a futile cavalry charge against tanks. Italian journalist Indro Montanelli’s account further cemented this narrative, portraying it as an act of bravery yet folly, symbolizing Poland’s alleged inability to adapt to modern warfare.

Polish uhlan with wz. 35 anti-tank rifle. Military instruction published in Warsaw in 1938
Polish uhlan with wz. 35 anti-tank rifle. Military instruction was published in Warsaw in 1938. (Source: Wikipedia)

In reality, the Polish cavalry never charged at tanks. Polish military doctrine and tactics of the time dictated that cavalry units, when facing armored threats, were to dismount and engage using anti-tank rifles, particularly the Wz.35, capable of penetrating the armor of most German tanks at close range. The role of the cavalry was envisioned as highly mobile, tasked with laying anti-tank mines, creating obstacles, and conducting guerrilla operations. The myth of cavalry charges against tanks stems from a misunderstanding of their strategic use and a misrepresentation of their capabilities. The Polish cavalry was not an anachronism but a flexible force designed to exploit mobility and surprise, tragically outmatched by the rapid advancements in military technology and tactics of their adversaries.

Historical Challenge: Can You Conquer the Past?

Answer more than 18 questions correctly, and you wll win a copy of History Chronicles Magazine Vol 1! Take our interactive history quiz now and put your knowledge to the test!

History Quiz

1 / 20

Which state was the first to secede from the Union?

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Which emperor built the Arch of Constantine to commemorate his victory at the Battle of Milvian Bridge?

3 / 20

Which event is considered the start of the American Civil War?

4 / 20

How many children did John F. Kennedy have?

5 / 20

What was the name of the settlement of colonists that grew up on the site of today's city of New York in the 17th century?

6 / 20

Lycurgus of Athens, a famous philosopher and orator, is among other things known as someone who successfully managed?

7 / 20

Which famous French painter is known for the series of paintings named "Water Lilies"?

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Who was the first emperor to convert to Christianity?

9 / 20

Which of the following Pharaohs was known for his unusually long reign of around 66 years?

10 / 20

Who was the Native American woman who assisted Lewis and Clark on their expedition?

11 / 20

Which god was considered the king of the gods in Ancient Egyptian mythology?

12 / 20

The Nazca Lines, a series of ancient geoglyphs, are located in which country?

13 / 20

What was the name of JFK’s famous inaugural speech quote? "Ask not what your country can do for you..."

14 / 20

Which country was divided into communist and non-communist regions at the 38th parallel after World War II?

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Which city was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79?

16 / 20

In which year was Robert E. Lee born?

17 / 20

Where was John F. Kennedy assassinated?

18 / 20

What was the primary purpose of the Lewis and Clark Expedition?

19 / 20

What does "Alea iacta est" mean in English?

20 / 20

Which number president of the United States was Abraham Lincoln?

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Conclusion

As we conclude our exploration of the Polish cavalry’s role in the September 1939 campaign, it’s essential to address the pervasive myths surrounding their engagement with German forces. Steven J. Zaloga offers a critical perspective in “Poland 1939 — The Birth of Blitzkrieg,” stating, “If a single image dominates the popular perception of the Polish campaign of 1939, it is the scene of Polish cavalry bravely charging the Panzers with their lances. Like many other details of the campaign, it is a myth that was created by German wartime propaganda and perpetuated by sloppy scholarship. Yet such myths have also been embraced by the Poles themselves as symbols of their wartime gallantry, achieving a cultural resonance despite their variance with the historical record”. This reflection underscores the complexity of historical interpretation and the power of myth in shaping our understanding of the past.

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