# Manfred von Richthofen

> German fighter pilot (1892-1918)

**Wikidata**: [Q4701](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q4701)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manfred_von_Richthofen)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/manfred-von-richthofen

## Summary
Manfred von Richthofen was a German fighter pilot (1892–1918), best known as the "Red Baron" for his legendary combat record during World War I. He achieved 80 confirmed aerial victories, becoming one of the most successful fighter aces of the war.

## Biography
- Born: May 2, 1892, in Breslau, Kingdom of Prussia (now Wrocław, Poland)
- Nationality: German
- Education: Attended the Royal Prussian Main Cadet Institute (1873–1918)
- Known for: Achieving 80 confirmed aerial victories as a fighter pilot during World War I
- Employer(s): Royal Prussian Army, later serving in Jagdgeschwader 71 and Jagdgeschwader 2
- Field(s): Military aviation, aerial combat

## Contributions
- **Aerial Combat Record**: Achieved 80 confirmed victories, earning the nickname "Red Baron" for his distinctive red-and-black aircraft markings.
- **Military Leadership**: Served in multiple fighter squadrons, including Jagdgeschwader 71 and Jagdgeschwader 2, demonstrating exceptional skill and bravery.
- **Decorations**: Received numerous awards, including the Pour le Mérite, Order of the Iron Crown, and War Merit Crosses from various German states.

## FAQs
### What was Manfred von Richthofen's most notable achievement?
Manfred von Richthofen achieved 80 confirmed aerial victories, making him one of the most successful fighter aces of World War I. His combat record earned him the nickname "Red Baron."

### Where did Manfred von Richthofen serve during World War I?
He served in multiple fighter squadrons, including Jagdgeschwader 71 and Jagdgeschwader 2, where he demonstrated exceptional aerial combat skills.

### What awards did Manfred von Richthofen receive?
He was honored with the Pour le Mérite, Order of the Iron Crown, and War Merit Crosses from various German states, reflecting his bravery and skill in combat.

## Why They Matter
Manfred von Richthofen's legacy as the "Red Baron" cemented his place in military aviation history. His 80 victories set a record that remained unmatched until the mid-20th century. His tactics and bravery influenced later generations of fighter pilots, and his nickname became synonymous with aerial combat excellence. Without his contributions, the narrative of World War I aerial warfare would lack one of its most iconic figures.

## Notable For
- **80 Confirmed Aerial Victories**: Set a record for the highest number of confirmed kills by a fighter pilot in World War I.
- **"Red Baron" Nickname**: Earned the moniker for his distinctive red-and-black aircraft markings.
- **Pour le Mérite Recipient**: Awarded the Kingdom of Prussia's highest order of merit for exceptional bravery.
- **Order of the Iron Crown Holder**: Received this prestigious Austrian decoration for military service.
- **War Merit Crosses**: Honored with multiple decorations from various German states, including Brunswick and Lippe.

## Body
### Early Life
Manfred von Richthofen was born on May 2, 1892, in Breslau, Kingdom of Prussia (now Wrocław, Poland). He attended the Royal Prussian Main Cadet Institute, where he began his military training. His early life was marked by a strong military upbringing, which would shape his future career in aviation.

### Military Career
Von Richthofen joined the Royal Prussian Army and later served in multiple fighter squadrons, including Jagdgeschwader 71 and Jagdgeschwader 2. His service in these units solidified his reputation as a skilled and daring pilot. His combat record was unparalleled, earning him the nickname "Red Baron" for his distinctive aircraft markings.

### Aerial Combat Record
Von Richthofen achieved 80 confirmed aerial victories, a record that stood until the mid-20th century. His tactics and bravery in dogfights made him a legend in military aviation. His victories were not only a testament to his skill but also to the advanced aircraft and tactics of the time.

### Awards and Recognition
Von Richthofen received numerous awards, including the Pour le Mérite, the Order of the Iron Crown, and War Merit Crosses from various German states. These decorations reflected his exceptional service and bravery in combat. His military honors were a direct result of his outstanding performance as a fighter pilot.

### Legacy
Manfred von Richthofen's legacy as the "Red Baron" endures in military aviation history. His record of 80 victories remains a benchmark for aerial combat excellence. His nickname and combat record have influenced later generations of fighter pilots, ensuring his place in aviation lore. His contributions to World War I aerial warfare are remembered as a defining moment in military history.

## References

1. Integrated Authority File
2. BnF authorities
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5. Great Norwegian Encyclopedia
6. TracesOfWar
7. International Standard Name Identifier
8. CiNii Research
9. [Source](https://kalliope-verbund.info/DE-611-BF-114647)
10. SNAC
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13. filmportal.de
14. Brockhaus Enzyklopädie
15. GeneaStar
16. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
17. Virtual International Authority File
18. CONOR.SI
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21. [Source](http://purl.org/pressemappe20/beaconlist/pe)
22. FactGrid
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