Battle of Almansa

In southeastern Spain, Anglo-Portuguese troops attempt to maintain their hold on the Kingdom of Valencia. The Duke of Berwick, a French general of English origin in the service of Louis XIV and Philip V, concentrates his forces to confront the Allied army at Almansa. His deployment in double line with a well-placed reserve allows a solid defense at the center and a decisive enveloping manoeuvre on the flanks. The Allied army is encircled, routed, and suffers heavy losses.

In the War of the Spanish Succession, Archduke Charles (future Emperor Charles VI) disputed the throne with Philip V, Louis XIV's grandson. Berwick, Marshal of France, was sent to Spain to reinforce Philip V. Almansa in Castile-La Mancha was the scene of decisive confrontation between the two claimants.

Flexible double-line deployment, solid center (Spanish infantry flanked by French troops), mobile cavalry on the wings. Frontal attack is checked but the wings outflank and encircle the enemy. Artillery pins the Allied lines. Optimal use of flat, open terrain.

Philip V consolidated his throne; Valencia and part of Catalonia passed to Bourbon control. Archduke Charles had to abandon Spain to become emperor in 1711. Almansa was France's greatest victory on Spanish soil and illustrated Berwick's talent, one of Louis XIV's finest generals.