Battle of Cassel

The Battle of Lens is a decisive confrontation between the French royal army and Imperial forces. Thanks to Condé's tactical superiority, notably through a bold cavalry charge, the French win a major strategic victory that precipitates the end of the conflict. The battle takes place in a context where the war is exhausting, and both sides seek a favorable conclusion.

After Oudenarde and Wijnendale, the Allies launch a siege against the fortress of Lille, strategic key to French Flanders. Marshal Boufflers organizes an exemplary defense, using Vauban's fortifications with rare effectiveness. Despite encirclement and massive bombardments, the garrison holds for nearly four months, inflicting heavy losses on the besiegers. Several French attempts to break the siege fail (relief battles led by Vendôme and La Mothe). Boufflers surrenders the city with military honors.

The Battle of Oudenarde pits the French army commanded by the Duke of Burgundy and Marshal de Vendôme against the Allied coalition led by Marlborough and Eugene of Savoy. The French attempt to take the town of Oudenarde to control the Scheldt, but are surprised by the speed of the Allied counter-offensive. Lack of coordination between the two French commanders causes disastrous confusion. The French, caught in a pincer, suffer a heavy defeat.