In the turmoil of eighteenth-century Poland, Pulaski's father was one of the leaders of the fight for Polish independence. His sons joined him in the struggle against Russian domination and young Casimir's military skill and daring in the face of Russian military might made him a legend throughout Europe. But even his genius could not overcome Russian power and the disunity of his own countrymen. The Polish rebellion was crushed, and Pulaski found himself a penniless exile in France.

Poland's loss, however, was America's gain. In 1776, Pulaski joined the forces of General Washington and America had a new and brilliant military leader in its struggle against Great Britain. Pulaski battled not only the British, but the prejudices of fellow officers who doubted the loyalty of a foreigner. As a leader of the fierce cavalry force known as the Pulaski Legion, he proved his worth in Pennsylvania, in the Indian-terrorized Mohawk Valley and in the final, crucial contest for the South.

Casimir Pulaski was only thirty-two when a British bullet ended his life. A brave, proud and headstrong young man, he fought the forces of oppression on both sides of the Atlantic. Today he is revered in both his native Poland and the United States as one of the most gallant heroes of man's age-old struggle for freedom.

From the dust jacket