Battle of Blenheim (or Höchstädt)

The Battle of Blenheim marks one of the greatest French military disasters of the eighteenth century. The Franco-Bavarian army, spread over 7 km along the Danube, is attacked at three points. Marlborough fixes the left wing with ferocity while Eugene holds Marsin on the right. Tallard, isolated at the center at Blenheim, sees his troops encircled in the village. After fierce fighting, English cavalry breaks the French lines and destroys the center. Tallard is captured, his forces annihilated.

France attempted to open a new front with Bavaria to strike Vienna. An unprecedented coalition between the English and Imperials thwarts this strategy with a bold campaign across Germany, culminating at Blenheim.

Overly rigid Franco-Bavarian deployment. Poor coordination between wings. Trapping troops in Blenheim makes them vulnerable. The enemy combines attrition maneuvers, feints, and decisive breakthroughs by reserve cavalry.

A brutal check to French expansion in Germany and Austria. Bavaria is invaded. Tallard is captured and remains a prisoner for five years. French military prestige is severely shaken.