27 June - The Battle of Dettingen

 

The Battle of Dettingen took place on June 27, 1743, during the War of the Austrian Succession. It was fought near the village of Dettingen in Bavaria (present-day Germany) between the forces of the British, Hanoverians, and Austrians on one side, and the French army on the other.

At the time, King George II of Britain and Elector of Hanover was leading his forces in support of the Habsburg claim to the Austrian throne. The French, under the command of Marshal François de Noailles, sought to prevent George II's army from reaching the Austrian Netherlands.

The battle began when the Anglo-Hanoverian forces, numbering around 50,000 men, crossed the River Main near Dettingen. They encountered the French army of similar strength, which had taken up a defensive position on the opposite bank. The French commander, Noailles, expected the British to retreat after facing the formidable French position.

However, instead of retreating, the British and Hanoverians, led by King George II, launched a determined assault across the river. The battle was fiercely contested, with heavy casualties on both sides. Despite being outnumbered, the British and Hanoverians managed to break through the French lines and secure a hard-fought victory.

The Battle of Dettingen holds historical significance as it was the last time a reigning British monarch personally led troops into battle. It was also the last time a British king engaged in combat on foreign soil. The victory boosted the morale of the British and their allies, and it had political repercussions throughout Europe.

The battle marked a setback for the French, who failed to halt the Anglo-Hanoverian advance. It highlighted the military prowess of the British and helped solidify their reputation as a formidable force on the continent.

Overall, the Battle of Dettingen was a significant engagement during the War of the Austrian Succession, showcasing the military abilities of the British and their allies and demonstrating the determination of King George II in leading his troops to victory.