The unit was formed in mid-December 1914 (or March 1915, sources vary), as part of the Polish Legions in World War I. The Brigade was first commanded by an Austrian officer, Ferdynand Küttner, and from 14 July 1916 by a Polish officer, Józef Haller de Hallenburg. After the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk, the Brigade rebelled against the Austro-Hungarians, joining other Polish units and fighting for the cause of Polish independence. In March 1918 the Brigade was combined with the Polish II Corps in Russia (of the former Russian Army, now also rebelling against the Russians).