Johann Philipp d'Arco facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Johann Philipp d'Arco
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| Born | 11 May 1652 Arco, Trentino, modern-day Italy |
| Died | 18 February 1704 (aged 51) Bregenz, modern-day Austria |
| Allegiance |  Habsburg monarchy |
| Years of service | 1673–1703 |
| Rank | General officer |
| Battles/wars | War of the Spanish Succession |
Johann Philipp d'Arco, also known as Count of Arco, was a soldier who lived from May 11, 1652, to February 18, 1704. He served the Habsburg monarchy for 30 years. The Habsburg monarchy was a powerful family that ruled over a large part of Europe for many centuries.
Johann Philipp d'Arco is mainly remembered because he gave up a very important fortress called Breisach after only 13 days. Because of this action, he faced serious consequences and was executed. It's important not to confuse him with another general named Arco, Jean Baptist, Comte d'Arco, who fought for the Electorate of Bavaria, an enemy of Austria during the War of the Spanish Succession.
A Soldier's Life
Johann Philipp d'Arco was born in Arco, Trentino, which is in modern-day Italy. He had already served as a soldier for 30 years and was known for his experience. In 1703, he received an important order from Louis William, Margrave of Baden-Baden. A Margrave was a type of noble ruler, similar to a duke. D'Arco was told to defend the city of Breisach against a French attack. The French forces were led by a general named Claude Louis Hector de Villars.
The Siege of Breisach
The city of Breisach was very well protected. D'Arco had enough soldiers to defend it for a long time. However, he surrendered the city on September 6, 1703. This happened after only 13 days of fighting.
Breisach was known as the "key" to southern Germany. When it fell into enemy hands, it meant that the French gained control of a very important location. They also captured many supplies, guns, and ammunition that were stored there.
The Consequences
Because he surrendered the fortress so quickly, d'Arco was accused of betraying his country. He was punished severely on February 18, 1704, in Bregenz, Austria. His second-in-command, Luigi Ferdinando Marsigli, also faced punishment. He lost all his honors and his position as a soldier.
