Battle of Schwyz facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Schwyz im Muttenthal
Part of the War of the Second Coalition
Date 14 – 15 August 1799 Location Schwyz, Switzerland Result French victory
Belligerents
France	Austria
Commanders and leaders
André Masséna	Franz, Freiherr von Jellachich
Strength
12,000	8,000
Casualties and losses
600	2,400 and six cannons

The Battle of Schwyz im Muttenthal was an important fight during a big war called the War of the Second Coalition. It took place in Schwyz, Switzerland, on August 14 and 15, 1799. This battle was fought between soldiers from France and Austria.

The French forces were led by a skilled general named André Masséna. The Austrian side was commanded by Major General Franz Jellachich. The battle ended with a victory for the French army.

What Was the War of the Second Coalition?

The Battle of Schwyz im Muttenthal was part of a larger conflict. This conflict was known as the War of the Second Coalition. It was a major European war that lasted from 1798 to 1802.

This war involved many powerful countries. They were fighting against the French First Republic. The French First Republic was the government of France after its revolution.

Many countries joined together to form a "coalition." This group included countries like Austria, Great Britain, and Russia. They wanted to stop France from expanding its power across Europe.

Who Fought in the Battle?

The main groups fighting in this battle were the French and the Austrians. Both sides had strong armies and experienced leaders.

The French Army

The French soldiers were part of the French First Republic's army. They were led by General of Division André Masséna. A General of Division is a high-ranking military officer.

Masséna was known for being a very clever and brave commander. His forces in this battle were about 12,000 soldiers strong.

The Austrian Army

The Austrian soldiers were part of the Habsburg Monarchy's army. The Habsburg Monarchy was a powerful empire that ruled over many lands.

Their commander was Major General Franz Jellachich. A Major General is also a high-ranking military officer. His brigade, or group of soldiers, numbered around 8,000 men.

Where Did the Battle Happen?

The battle took place in a region called Schwyz. This area is located in Switzerland. Switzerland is a country known for its mountains and beautiful landscapes.

The specific location was the Muttenthal area within Schwyz. This region's terrain, with its mountains and valleys, often played a role in how battles were fought.

What Happened During the Battle?

The fighting at Schwyz im Muttenthal lasted for two days. It began on August 14, 1799, and continued into August 15.

The French and Austrian forces clashed in intense fighting. Both sides fought hard to gain control of the area.

The Outcome

In the end, the French army achieved a victory. This meant they won the battle against the Austrian forces.

The battle had different impacts on each side. The French army lost about 600 soldiers. This number includes those who were killed, wounded, or went missing.

The Austrian army suffered greater losses. They lost around 2,400 soldiers. They also lost six cannons, which are large artillery weapons.

Why Was This Battle Important?

Even though it was a smaller part of a bigger war, the Battle of Schwyz im Muttenthal was significant. It showed the strength of the French army under General Masséna.

This battle was one of many that shaped the course of the War of the Second Coalition. It helped determine who controlled important areas in Europe during that time.