Polish military leader (1746–1817) considered a national hero in Poland, Belarus, Lithuania, and the United States. He led the 1794 Kosciuszko Uprising against Imperial Russia and Kingdom of Prussia as Supreme Commander of the National Armed Force. Rare ALS in French, signed “T. Kosciuszko,” one page, 7.25 x 9.5, May 15, 1814. Letter to Thomas Jefferson. In full (translated): “I believe that we both suffer this year, you on account of England [the war of 1812] and I for us [Poland], because I have not touched the interest of my small sum for the last year of 1813 and for which I am in great need. I understand that the war might have prevented communications with France, but try to send it through England or Holland. I embrace you a thousand times with all my friendship and sincere esteem.” Letter is docketed by Jefferson on the reverse: “Kosciuszko. Paris May 15th, rec’d Oct. 12.” Light intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, a uniform block of toning over text and signature from previous display, a bit of light soiling, and light show-through from two mounting remnants on reverse, otherwise fine condition.
One of the first foreign volunteers to join America’s fight for independence, Kosciuszko arrived in Philadelphia in August 1776 and rose through the ranks until being discharged as a brigadier general in 1783—with American citizenship. Returning to Europe and aiding in Poland’s liberation from Russian occupation, he ultimately returned to America in 1797, where he would insist in his will that his wealth be used to acquire freedom and provide education for slaves—including those owned by Jefferson, his friend and executor. Interestingly, at one point in their relationship, Jefferson had asked Kosciuszko for an advance of the Polish general’s money to help fund improvements to and festivities at Monticello. Jefferson would eventually sell his collection of books to the Library of Congress to repay the loan—an indebtedness referenced here. There are believed to be only 41 total letters known to exist between the author of the Declaration of Independence and the leader of the 1794 Polish insurrection, nearly all of which are in housed in the National Museum in Kracow or in American universities and libraries. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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