1745: The Battle of Fontenoy: Epic Battles of History

By Anthony Holland

"1745: The Battle of Fontenoy" is a masterful exploration into one of the eighteenth century's most significant military engagements, offering readers an unprecedented glimpse into the clash that shaped the course of European history. This riveting narrative not only recounts the ferocious battle that unfolded on May 11, 1745, but also delves deep into the geopolitical tremors that led to this momentous conflict. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, the book brings to life the strategies, personalities, and political intrigues that surrounded the War of the Austrian Succession.

 

At the heart of "1745: The Battle of Fontenoy" is the dramatic encounter between France, led by the tactical genius Maurice de Saxe, and the formidable Pragmatic Army, comprising forces from Britain, the Dutch Republic, and Austria. The author skillfully navigates the complexities of this pivotal moment, presenting a balanced analysis that highlights the battle's impact on military tactics, international relations, and the broader European power dynamic. Readers are transported to the lush fields of the Austrian Netherlands, where the fate of empires was decided in a single day of fierce combat.

 

What sets this book apart is its ability to weave a detailed account of the battle with a broader historical context, offering insights into the social, political, and intellectual currents of the Age of Enlightenment. The narrative is enriched by vivid descriptions of eighteenth-century warfare, from the roar of cannon fire to the intricate maneuvers of armies on the field. Moreover, the book sheds light on the personalities who played crucial roles in the battle, from the brilliant Maurice de Saxe to the leaders of the coalition forces, revealing the human element behind the historical events.

 

"1745: The Battle of Fontenoy" is more than just a military history; it is a captivating story of ambition, strategy, and the quest for power. It appeals to historians and general readers alike, offering fresh perspectives on a battle that influenced the development of modern Europe. Whether you are fascinated by military strategy, intrigued by the political machinations of the eighteenth century, or simply love a well-told historical tale, this book is an essential addition to your collection. Join us on a journey back in time to witness the battle that forever altered the landscape of European history.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Anthony Holland
• Release date: Mar 20, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224648443

Book preview

Introduction

Few battles encapsulate the zeitgeist of the eighteenth century with as much clarity and vibrancy as the Battle of Fontenoy. Fought on May 11, 1745, amidst the sprawling, verdant fields of the Austrian Netherlands. This battle, pivotal in the War of the Austrian Succession, saw the forces of France, under the command of Maurice de Saxe, an officer of unparalleled military acumen, clash with the troops of the Pragmatic Army—a coalition led by Britain, the Dutch Republic, and Austria. Here, on this Flemish battlefield, the ambitions of monarchs, the aspirations of nations, and the fate of Europe hung precariously in the balance.

The significance of Fontenoy, however, extends far beyond the immediate outcome of the conflict. It serves as a microcosm of the era’s shifting balance of power, the evolution of military tactics, and the role of individual leadership in shaping the course of history. The battle highlighted the rise of France as a dominant military force, underscored by innovative strategies that would later influence the art of war. At the same time, it exposed the limitations and challenges faced by coalition forces in achieving cohesive and effective military action.

Moreover, Fontenoy was a harbinger of the larger geopolitical struggles that would dominate the eighteenth century. It illustrated the complexity of international relations in an age where allegiances were fluid, and the pursuit of power often led to unintended consequences. The battle was a crucible in which the modern concepts of statecraft and military science were forged, tested by the fire of conflict and the ambitions of those who sought to shape the world according to their vision.

Chapter 1: Rival Powers

As the dawn of the 18th century unfolded, Europe's political landscape was deeply entrenched in the feudal traditions of yore, dominated by the whims of monarchs and marred by mutual suspicions and inherited enmities. This period, though often overlooked or scorned by the technological triumphalists of the Victorian era, was in fact a crucible of monumental ideas and enduring legacies, perhaps undervalued in the glow of subsequent industrial and democratic revolutions.

France, under the ostensibly absolute rule of Louis XV, commanded the stage as a behemoth with a populace imbued with a mix of ingenious creativity and indefatigable labor. Cardinal Fleury's reign of peace had allowed France to recuperate from the scars of Louis XIV's expansive wars, creating a unified and potent force, unencumbered by the divisions of parliamentary governance. Yet, despite the outward unity and strength, France's monarch presided over a court rife with dissipation and intrigue, a cipher in his own realm, swayed by favorites and detached from the governance of his subjects.

Across the English Channel, Great Britain presented a contrast. Still basking in the afterglow of the Glorious Revolution, Britain was a nation where parliamentary power had been wrested from monarchic absolutism, embodying a spirit of enterprise and liberty that would eventually seed an empire upon which the sun never set. Yet, in 1740, she was tethered to continental entanglements by her Hanoverian king, George II, whose German predilections often overshadowed the broader British interests. The echoes of a bygone feudalism still resonated, though, in the aristocratic dominance of British society and military, a vestige of an age when the stratifications of birthright and privilege dictated the contours of power.

The stage was thus set for the War of Austrian Succession, a conflict ignited by the death of Emperor Charles VI and the disputed succession of his daughter, Maria Theresa. Europe's powers, drawn by the lure of territorial gains, plunged into a contest that would pit the old order against the burgeoning forces of nationalism and enlightened governance. France, seizing the opportunity to weaken its perennial rival, Austria, threw its support behind the Bavarian claimant to the throne, setting the scene for a protracted struggle that would draw in all the major powers of the continent, including a reluctant but ultimately committed Great Britain.

Under the stewardship of Lord Carteret, Britain embarked on a military intervention to uphold the Pragmatic Sanction and support Maria Theresa, defying the isolationist inclinations of Walpole's ministry. The deployment of British forces to Flanders marked the end of a period of relative peace and the beginning of a renewed engagement in the Continental balance of power, a commitment that would see Britain entangled in European affairs with an intensity not witnessed since the days of Marlborough.

As Britain and France prepared to renew their historic rivalry, the specter of Frederick II of Prussia loomed large, his ambitions and military genius poised to reshape the geopolitical landscape of Europe. His seizure of Silesia and subsequent manipulations of the conflict's dynamics underscored the emergent power of Prussia and heralded a new era of statecraft, characterized by Machiavellian diplomacy and the ruthless pursuit of national interest.

The French army of the 18th century stands out with remarkable distinction, its threads woven from the legacy of the Capetian dynasty through to the reign of Louis XV. This formidable force, emblematic of France's martial spirit, owed much of its prowess and organization to the visionary reforms of Louis XIV and his War Minister, Louvois. Their efforts transformed the French military into a beacon of efficiency and power, admired and emulated across the continent.

As Europe edged closer to the maelstrom of the War of Austrian Succession, the French military, though reduced to a peacetime cadre of around 100,000 men, was rapidly expanded to meet the demands of conflict. By the early stages of the war, the ranks had swelled to a formidable host, with the regular infantry complemented by a diverse array of foreign regiments, irregulars, and provincial militias.

The pride of the French infantry was the Gardes Françaises and Gardes Suisses, elite units that traced their origins back to the royal guards of the Capetian kings. These troops, distinguished by their valor and discipline, occupied the vanguard of France's military might, their officers drawn from the nobility's crème de la crème. The rivalry between the native French Guards and their Swiss counterparts was legendary, epitomized by exchanges that underscored the mercenaries' loyalty and the French officers' sense of honor.

Yet, the French army's strength was not solely vested in its regular troops. It also included a significant contingent of foreign soldiers, reflecting France's allure to warriors from across Europe. The Swiss regiments, integral to the French military since the Perpetual Peace of 1516, fought with a steadfastness that would later be memorialized in the annals of the French Revolution. Similarly, the Irish Brigade, composed of exiles fleeing the repressive policies of the British crown, added a fierce and loyal component to France's military apparatus, their exploits at Fontenoy and elsewhere cementing their place in military lore.

Not to be overlooked were the irregular forces and the Provincial Militia, innovations that bolstered the French army's ranks and capabilities. The Militia, in particular, represented a significant departure from traditional reliance on the aristocracy for military manpower, offering a pool of reserve forces that proved invaluable during the exigencies of war.

Opposing this formidable French force were the armies of Great Britain and her allies, embroiled in a conflict that would test the mettle of statesmen and soldiers alike. The British military, though formidable at sea, faced a challenging task in matching the French army's might on the European mainland. Leadership fell to men like Lord Carteret, who navigated the treacherous waters of international diplomacy to muster support for Maria Theresa and the Austrian cause.

As the war unfolded, the strategic acumen of leaders on both sides of the conflict — from the visionary reforms of Louvois to the daring gambits of Frederick II of Prussia — shaped the course of military events. The French army, with its blend of traditional valor and innovative tactics, stood ready to confront the challenges posed by its adversaries, its composition and leadership reflecting a martial tradition that had long positioned France as a preeminent military power in Europe.

In the vast panorama of 18th-century European military power, the French cavalry commanded an awe-inspiring presence, unmatched in spirit, skill, and the nobility of its traditions. This elite force, with its roots entwined in the annals of the royal guards, was a vivid manifestation of France's martial prowess. Despite the transformative military reforms introduced under the Sun King, Louis XIV, and his indomitable War Minister, Louvois, the cavalry maintained a fierce allegiance to its feudal origins, with many regiments still under the proprietary command of noble houses.

By 1740, the composition of the French cavalry showcased a formidable array, from the prestigious Maison du Roi to the array of regiments that constituted the backbone of France's mounted troops. The Maison du Roi, officered by the cream of the high nobility, and the Gendarmerie de France, with its roots stretching back to the 15th century, epitomized the fusion of martial valor and aristocratic privilege. The historical connection with Scotland was embodied in the first company of Body-Guards, a living relic of the enduring alliance between France and the northern kingdom, their ranks once filled exclusively by Scots under the command of figures such as the Comte de Montgommery.

The Gardes de la Porte and de la Prévôté de l'Hôtel, with their lineage tracing back to the era of St Louis, and the Mousquetaires, a creation of Louis XIV, added layers of tradition and exclusivity to the Household Cavalry. The Mousquetaires, divided into the Grey and Black, were synonymous with youthful nobility's aspiration for glory and proximity to the monarch.

Among the line regiments, the Royal Carabiniers stood out for their exemplary service and the rigorous standards they embodied. Their distinguished role in earlier conflicts under the command of legends such as Eugene and Marlborough had earned them a storied reputation, one that they would carry into the battles of the mid-18th century. The introduction of a specialized training regime, which would later influence the establishment of the renowned cavalry school at Saumur, underscored the Carabiniers' pivotal role in elevating the French cavalry to the pinnacle of European military excellence.

The dragoons, with their origins in the adaptable strategies of the Duc de Brissac, and the hussars, drawing on Eastern European martial traditions, represented the versatility and range of the French cavalry's capabilities. These lighter, more mobile units were crucial in exploiting the terrain, disrupting enemy formations, and executing rapid maneuvers that confounded opponents and secured strategic advantages.

The French artillery, while not as advanced in organization and mobility as that of some contemporaries, benefitted from the innovations of Vallière, who sought to standardize calibers and enhance the operational efficiency of this vital arm. The introduction of battalion guns by Marshal Saxe, although experimental, indicated a willingness to adapt and innovate, traits that would be crucial in the conflicts that lay ahead.

As the sun rose over the idyllic countryside of France, the local taverns, particularly during the vibrancy of rural festivals, became stages for a peculiar yet critical aspect of military recruitment. The figure central to this tableau was the recruiting sergeant, a man whose appearance was as calculated as it was striking. Adorned in a uniform that seemed to capture the very essence of martial valor and glory, his presence was magnetic. With a moustache turned upwards in defiance of gravity and a demeanor that breathed the air of adventure, he was the embodiment of the martial aspirations that he sought to awaken in the hearts of the unsuspecting youth.

The recruitment process was an art form in itself, a blend of persuasion and allure, presented through tales that promised love, plunder, and boundless adventure. An example of such a call to arms is preserved, offering a glimpse into the methods employed by these notorious deceivers. It advertised for the Regiment of Rouergue, promising ambitious youths the opportunity to serve their king and fulfill their laudable ambitions. The sergeant, positioned strategically in the social hub of the tavern, offered not just a vision of a life beyond the mundane but also immediate gratification through his purse, leading to a night of revelry from which the recruit would awaken to a new reality, one far removed from the romanticized portrayal that had ensnared him.

The standards for enlistment, including physical requirements and age restrictions, highlighted a preference for youth and vigor, though these criteria were often relaxed or disregarded in times of war. The duration of service, nominally six years, extended far beyond for many, with re-enrollment incentivized, leading to a veteran core within the army. This core, seasoned by years of service, constituted the backbone of the French military's strength.

The visual spectacle of the French army in this period was unparalleled, a stark contrast to the utilitarian aesthetics dictated by modern warfare. The battlefield was a canvas, painted with the vivid hues of uniforms that ranged across the spectrum, complemented by the ceremonial grandeur of banners and standards, symbols of pride and unity. These visual elements were not mere ornamentation but served as a tangible manifestation of allegiance and martial identity.

Uniforms, introduced to the infantry by Louvois and later adopted by the cavalry, were as diverse in color as they were in design, reflecting not just organizational structure but also national and regimental identities. From the white and grey of French infantry to the red of Irish and Swiss regiments and the blue of irregular units, the military attire was a mosaic of martial tradition. The accoutrements, from the iconic three-cornered hat to the linen gaiters and the cuirass for some cavalry units, were both symbolic and practical, though their utility in combat was sometimes questionable.

The sartorial splendor of the army, however, belied the harsh realities of military life and the exploitative practices within the system of army clothing. The pursuit of personal profit at the expense of the soldiers' welfare by some officers underscored a darker aspect of military administration, revealing a tension between the image of martial glory and the tangible hardships endured by those who served.

The arms and accouterments of the infantryman were emblematic of an era that balanced on the cusp of technological innovation and historical precedent. The musket, with its considerable length and weight, was a cumbersome companion on the battlefield, offering a range that by today's standards seems almost quaint. Yet, it was the soldier's lifeline, a tool of survival in the deadly dance of war. The accoutrements, including the cartouche-box, the bayonet, and the short sword derisively termed as a briquet by the cavalry, added to the already significant burden borne by these men. Marching into battle, a soldier was laden with a load that would challenge the endurance of even the hardiest of modern warriors, carrying everything from their personal kit to their share of the communal tent and rations.

The financial recompense for this arduous service was meager at best, with payments often lagging several months behind. The daily pay of a linesman, when dissected, left him with little more than a penny for personal expenses, once the cost of bread and meat rations was deducted. This stark frugality was juxtaposed against the backdrop of corruption and peculation by contractors, exacerbating the soldiers' hardships. Yet, in the occasional instances when the commissariat system failed entirely, the soldiers' receipt of monetary compensation in lieu of rations was a rare cause for celebration amidst the prevailing conditions of deprivation.

Contrasting sharply with the spartan existence of the rank and file, the lifestyle of the officer corps, particularly those of aristocratic birth, was characterized by extravagance and luxury. This disparity underscored the deep social divisions within the army and reflected broader societal inequalities. Officers' attempts to maintain a semblance of peacetime opulence even while on campaign were not just a matter of personal pride but a significant logistical burden that impeded mobility and operational efficiency. The lavish train of equipages, silverware, and even operatic troupes that accompanied some commanders into the field was indicative of an ethos that prioritized display over practicality, a sentiment echoed by the royal household itself.

Efforts to curtail these excesses through royal ordinances highlight the tension between the ideals of martial simplicity and the realities of aristocratic indulgence. Despite these attempts at reform, the entrenched habits of luxury and the example set by the king and his court rendered such measures largely ineffective. The spectacle of Louis XV's campaign tent, a gift from the Sultan of Turkey, adorned in silk and brocade, stands as a testament to the opulence that permeated the highest echelons of military command, even as the soldiers beneath