The Battle of Kircholm took place during the ongoing conflict between the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and Sweden, part of the larger struggle for dominance in the Baltic Sea region. Led by Hetman Jan Karol Chodkiewicz, the forces of the Commonwealth faced off against the Swedish army commanded by King Charles IX. The battle occurred on September 27, 1605, near the village of Kircholm, situated in present-day Latvia. The Polish-Lithuanian troops were primarily cavalry, known for their mobility and effectiveness in battle, a significant advantage against the Swedish forces, who were less experienced in such terrains.

The battle commenced with the Swedish army attempting to employ their preferred tactics of organized infantry formations, but they found themselves disrupted by the swift maneuvers of the Commonwealth’s cavalry. The Polish-Lithuanian forces were well-prepared, having utilized intelligence to position themselves advantageously. As the battle unfolded, the Commonwealth troops launched a successful full-scale cavalry charge, significantly contributing to their victory. The Swedish forces suffered heavy casualties and were forced to retreat.

After the battle, it was evident that the Commonwealth had secured a firm footing in the ongoing regional struggles, albeit the full impact would take time to manifest. This victory not only bolstered Polish morale but also established Hetman Chodkiewicz as a prominent military leader in European warfare. The successful tactics displayed at Kircholm would influence future engagements and strategies on both sides of the conflict.