What is zizka?

Jan Žižka (1360-1424) was a Czech military commander and one of the most important figures in the Hussite Wars. He was born in Trocnov, Bohemia (now part of the Czech Republic) and from a young age was involved in military affairs. He fought in the Battle of Nicopolis in 1396 and later in the crusade against the Lithuanians.

In 1419, when the Hussite uprising began in Bohemia, Žižka joined the rebels and quickly became one of their most important leaders. He was known for his innovative military tactics, including the use of wagons to create fortified positions (known as the Wagenburg) and the formation of an elite unit of heavily armored cavalry called the Strážci ("Guardians").

Under Žižka's leadership, the Hussites defeated several crusading armies sent by the Catholic Church, including a famous victory at the Battle of Tábor in 1420. He died the following year of an illness, but his legacy lived on as the Hussite movement continued to fight for religious and political freedom for many years.

Žižka is still celebrated as a national hero in the Czech Republic and is portrayed in literature, art, and film. His military tactics have also been studied by modern military leaders.