Treaty of Versailles (1758) facts for kids

The Treaty of Versailles of 1758, also known as the Third Treaty of Versailles, was an important agreement signed between Austria and France. This treaty officially confirmed earlier agreements made at Versailles in 1756 and 1757.

However, the 1758 treaty also changed one big part of the 1757 agreement. The earlier plan was to create a new, independent country in the Southern Netherlands (which is now mostly Belgium). This new country was supposed to be ruled by Philip, Duke of Parma. But the 1758 treaty canceled this idea. Instead, the Southern Netherlands would continue to be controlled by Austria.

What Happened After the Treaty?

France had hoped for a quick win against Prussia. They were part of a strong group, or coalition, that included Austria, Russia, Sweden, and Saxony. This group expected to easily defeat Prussia.

Even though the plan to put a French ruler in the Austrian Netherlands was stopped, the treaty made the coalition even more determined. They no longer just wanted to defeat Prussia; they wanted to completely destroy it.

The Treaty of 1758 seemed to be more like a promise of support than a strong military alliance. This became clear when the coalition faced many defeats. From 1759 onwards, the British and Prussian forces won many battles against them.