Friedrich Ludwig JahnFriedrich Ludwig JahnFriedrich Ludwig Jahn (August 11, 1778 – October 15, 1852) was a German gymnastics educator and nationalist. He is commonly known as Turnvater Jahn, roughly meaning "father of gymnastics" Jahn. Early in 1813 Jahn took an active part in the formation of the famous Lützow Free Corps, a volunteer force in the Prussian army fighting Napoleon. CriticismIn his time Friedrich Jahn was seen by both his supporters and opponents as a liberal figure. Jahn, Friedrich Ludwig ".. 1879.