Battle of Marsaglia facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Marsaglia
Part of the Nine Years' War
Catinat at Marsaglia, 4 October 1693
Date 4 October 1693 Location Marsaglia, near Turin, present-day Italy Result French victory
Belligerents
France	Savoy  Spain
Commanders and leaders
Nicolas Catinat	Victor Amadeus II of Savoy
Strength
35,000	30,000
Casualties and losses
1,800 dead or wounded	10,000 dead or wounded 2,000 captured

Map of Marsaglia

The Battle of Marsaglia was an important fight during the Nine Years' War. It happened on October 4, 1693, in Italy. The battle was between the French army, led by Marshal Nicolas Catinat, and the army of the Grand Alliance. This alliance was led by Duke Victor Amadeus II of Savoy.

What Was the Battle of Marsaglia?

The Battle of Marsaglia was a major event in the Nine Years' War. This war involved many European countries. The battle took place in Italy, near the city of Turin. It was a clash between the powerful French army and a group of allied forces.

Who Fought at Marsaglia?

The French army was commanded by Marshal Nicolas Catinat. He was a very skilled general. On the other side was the Grand Alliance. This group included soldiers from the Duchy of Savoy (part of modern-day Italy) and Spain. Their leader was Duke Victor Amadeus II of Savoy. The French had about 35,000 soldiers. The Alliance had around 30,000.

Why Did They Fight Here?

The battle happened because the Duke of Savoy was trying to capture a French-held town called Pinerolo. Marshal Catinat marched his army to help defend Pinerolo. He set up his forces near the village of Marsaglia. The Duke of Savoy decided to attack the French army head-on.

The Battle Unfolds

On October 4, 1693, the two armies met. The French soldiers were very well-trained. Marshal Catinat had planned everything carefully. This gave the French a big advantage. They fought bravely and effectively.

What Was the Outcome?

The battle ended in a clear victory for the French army. The Grand Alliance suffered heavy losses. They had about 10,000 soldiers killed or wounded. Another 2,000 were captured. The French, however, lost far fewer soldiers, with about 1,800 killed or wounded.

Interesting Facts About Marsaglia

The Battle of Marsaglia is important for a few reasons:

• It was one of the first times a long line of infantry soldiers used a bayonet charge. Bayonets are knives fixed to the end of a rifle.
• Hussars (a type of light cavalry) were seen in Western Europe for the first time here.
• The new Irish Brigade fought for the French army in this battle.