Johann von Robais, Baron de Kalb: A Hero of the American Revolution

Johann von Robais, Baron de Kalb (June 19, 1721 – August 19, 1780), born Johann Kalb, was a Franconian-born French military officer who served as a major general in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. He was mortally wounded while fighting against the British Army during the Battle of Camden.

Casey Adams

1/19/20253 min read

Early Life and Education

Johann von Robais, Baron de Kalb, was born Johann Kalb on June 19, 1721, in Hüttendorf, a small village near Erlangen in the Principality of Bayreuth, now part of modern Germany.

His parents, Johann Leonhard Kalb and Margarethe Seitz, were of modest means.

Despite his humble beginnings, Kalb displayed an early aptitude for languages, learning French and English alongside his native German.

These linguistic skills, coupled with a knack for social diplomacy, paved the way for his entry into the French military.

Military Career in Europe

Kalb began his military career in 1743, joining the Loewendal German Regiment of the French Army during the War of the Austrian Succession.

Demonstrating exceptional leadership and strategic acumen, he rose through the ranks and later served with distinction during the Seven Years' War.

Promoted to lieutenant colonel, Kalb became the assistant quartermaster general of the Army of the Upper Rhine.

In recognition of his service, he was awarded the prestigious Order of Military Merit in 1763 and was ennobled as the Baron de Kalb.

Following his elevation to the nobility, Kalb retired from active military service in 1764.

He married Anna Elizabeth Emilie van Robais, the daughter of a wealthy French cloth manufacturer.

The couple settled at Milon-la-Chapelle near Versailles, where Kalb pursued a quieter life as a gentleman farmer.

They had three children: Élie, Frederic, and Caroline.

While Élie continued the family legacy, Frederic tragically died during the French Revolution.

Mission to America

In 1768, Kalb undertook a covert mission for the Duc de Choiseul, France's Foreign Minister.

Sent to assess the growing tensions between Great Britain and its American colonies, Kalb spent four months in North America.

He was struck by the colonists' "spirit of independence" and their resolve to resist British rule.

His detailed reports to the French government underscored the potential for American rebellion and France’s opportunity to weaken its rival, Britain.

This mission also kindled Kalb’s personal admiration for the American cause.

Role in the American Revolutionary War

In July 1777, Kalb returned to America, accompanied by his protégé, the Marquis de Lafayette.

Initially disappointed at not receiving the promised rank of major general, Kalb eventually secured the position on September 5, 1777, due in part to Lafayette’s influence.

Kalb’s leadership became evident during the harsh winter at Valley Forge in 1777–1778, where he commanded a division comprising Patterson’s and Learned’s Brigades.

Despite the challenging conditions, Kalb’s dedication and discipline earned him the respect of his peers and subordinates.

In 1780, Kalb was assigned to lead a division in the Southern Department of the Continental Army under General Horatio Gates.

His division played a critical role in the ill-fated Battle of Camden on August 16, 1780.

Outnumbered and poorly supplied, the Continental forces suffered a devastating defeat.

Kalb fought valiantly, rallying his troops and engaging in hand-to-hand combat.

He was mortally wounded, receiving multiple bayonets and musket wounds before being captured by the British. Kalb succumbed to his injuries three days later, on August 19, 1780.

Legacy

Baron de Kalb’s bravery and sacrifice at Camden cemented his legacy as a hero of the American Revolution.

Congress posthumously honored him for his service, and a monument was erected at his burial site in Camden, South Carolina.

Kalb’s unwavering commitment to the cause of liberty inspired future generations, both in America and Europe.

Today, Baron de Kalb is remembered as a symbol of international solidarity in the fight for American independence.

His name adorns towns, schools, and military units across the United States, a testament to his enduring impact on the nation he adopted as his own.

Johann von Robais, Baron de Kalb