Battle of Liegnitz (1760) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Liegnitz
Part of the Third Silesian War (Seven Years' War)
Prussian infantry attack to the Austrian cavalry during the battle
Date 15 August 1760 Location Liegnitz, Prussian Silesia, present-day Poland 51°13′30″N 16°11′17″E / 51.22500°N 16.18806°E / 51.22500; 16.18806 Result Prussian victory
Belligerents
Prussia	Austria
Commanders and leaders
Frederick the Great	Ernst von Laudon
Strength
30,000	25,000 (80,000 reinforcements under von Daun never engaged)
Casualties and losses
3,394	8,537 3,803 dead and wounded, 4,734 captured, 82 guns

The Battle of Liegnitz was an important fight during the Seven Years' War. It happened on August 15, 1760. In this battle, the Prussian army, led by Frederick the Great, defeated the Austrian army. The Austrian forces were under the command of Ernst von Laudon. This battle took place near the town of Liegnitz, which is now called Legnica in Poland.

What Was the Battle of Liegnitz?

The Battle of Liegnitz was a key moment in the Third Silesian War. This war was part of the larger Seven Years' War. The Seven Years' War was a big global conflict. It involved many major powers of the time. The main goal of the Third Silesian War was for Prussia and Austria to control Silesia. Silesia was a rich region in Central Europe.

Who Fought in the Battle?

The main fighters in this battle were the armies of Prussia and Austria.

• Prussia was led by their famous king, Frederick the Great. His army had about 30,000 soldiers.
• Austria was commanded by General Ernst Gideon Freiherr von Laudon. His forces numbered around 25,000. Another Austrian general, Leopold von Daun, had 80,000 more soldiers nearby. However, these extra troops did not join the fight.

How Did the Battle Happen?

The battle began in the early morning near Liegnitz. It was a surprise attack by the Austrians.

The Early Morning Attack

General Laudon's Austrian cavalry (soldiers on horseback) attacked first. They charged the Prussian positions. However, the Prussian Hussars, led by General Zieten, fought back hard. The Hussars were light cavalry known for their speed. They managed to push the Austrian cavalry away.

Artillery and Infantry Clashes

After the cavalry fight, a big artillery duel started. This means both sides fired cannons at each other. The Prussians eventually gained the upper hand. A lucky shot hit an Austrian wagon carrying gunpowder. This caused a huge explosion. It helped the Prussians win the artillery part of the battle.

Next, the Austrian infantry (foot soldiers) attacked the Prussian lines. But the Prussians were ready. They met the Austrians with strong cannon fire.

The Prussian Victory

The Prussians then launched their own counter-attack. A group called the Regiment Anhalt-Bernburg led the charge. They attacked the Austrians, forcing them to retreat. What was special about this attack? The Anhalt-Bernburgers used bayonets (knives fixed to rifles) to charge Austrian cavalry. This was very unusual, as infantry rarely attacked cavalry directly.

What Was the Result?

The main fighting was over shortly after dawn. Prussian cannons continued to fire at the retreating Austrians. General Leopold von Daun arrived with his large army. He saw that Laudon's forces had been defeated. Even though his soldiers were fresh, Daun decided not to attack.

The Battle of Liegnitz was a clear victory for Prussia.

• Prussia lost about 3,394 soldiers.
• Austria suffered much heavier losses. They had 8,537 casualties. This included 3,803 dead or wounded and 4,734 captured. They also lost 82 cannons.

This victory was important for Frederick the Great. It helped him continue fighting in the Seven Years' War.