War of the Austrian Succession
1743 – 1748
From the first clashes in 1743 to the final fighting in 1748, find the full chronology of this conflict below, with the forces engaged, commanders and consequences for France in each battle.
Era : Classical Era
- 1743 Battle of Dettingen Defeat
The Battle of Dettingen is one of the first major confrontations of the War of the Austrian Succession. French forces attack the Allied army attempting to raise the siege of Dettingen. After intense fighting, the French are finally repulsed and must retreat. It is the last battle in which a British king personally participated, George II.
- 1745 Battle of Fontenoy Victory
The Battle of Fontenoy is one of the most famous French victories of the eighteenth century. Under Marshal de Saxe, French forces repulse the Allied army led by the Duke of Cumberland. The battle is characterized by fierce fighting around fortified villages and skillful use of infantry and cavalry. This victory allows France to regain the initiative on the Austrian Netherlands front.
- 1746 Battle of Rocourt Victory
The Battle of Rocourt is a major strategic victory for France. Maurice de Saxe manages to repulse the Allied army attempting to regain the initiative in Belgium. The battle is characterized by solid defense and effective counterattacks by French forces, who hold fortified positions while inflicting heavy losses on the Allies.
- 1747 Battle of Lauffeld Victory
The Battle of Lauffeld is a decisive French victory in the War of the Austrian Succession. Maurice de Saxe brilliantly uses a combination of offensive and defensive manoeuvres to defeat a well-equipped and experienced Allied army. This victory confirms French supremacy in the Austrian Netherlands and allows France to consolidate control over several strategic fortresses.
- 1747 Battle of Val Victory
The Battle of Val is a notable tactical victory for France during the War of the Austrian Succession. Maurice de Saxe, despite a slightly inferior army in numbers, succeeds in repulsing Allied troops attempting to regain the initiative on the Austrian Netherlands front. Fighting is marked by strong resistance and skillful use of French artillery and cavalry.
- 1748 Siege of Maastricht Victory
The siege of Maastricht was a decisive French operation to seize a strategic strong place in the Austrian Netherlands. Under Marshal Maurice de Saxe, French forces besieged the town for several weeks before forcing surrender of the Dutch defenses. This victory consolidated the French position in the region and weakened the Allied coalition.