Kosciuszko, Thaddeus

(1746-1817) played an important role in the American War of Independence. He was a good friend of Thomas Jefferson, one of the authors of the declaration of Independence. This document was most inspiring for Kosciusko. Upon his return in Poland in 1783, he became involved in the production of the first modern constitution in Europe. Unfortunately, however, this constitution had no long life. In 1794, Kosciuszko led the failed uprising against the Russians.