Wirich Philipp von Daun facts for kids
Wirich Philipp von Daun (born October 19, 1669 – died July 30, 1741) was an important Austrian military leader. He was a Field Marshal in the Imperial Army, which was the army of the Holy Roman Empire. He fought in a big conflict called the War of Spanish Succession. Wirich Philipp was also the father of Leopold Josef Graf Daun, who became even more famous. In 1710, he was given the special title of Prince of Teano.
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Early Life and Military Career
Wirich Philipp von Daun was born in Vienna, Austria. His father, Wilhelm Johann Anton von und zu Daun, was also a Field Marshal. This meant he was a very high-ranking military officer.
Fighting in the War of Spanish Succession
Wirich Philipp became famous during the War of Spanish Succession. This war was fought to decide who would be the next king of Spain. He served under a brilliant general named Eugene of Savoy.
In 1706, Daun played a key role in defending the city of Turin. His successful defense helped win a major victory. The next year, in 1707, he led a siege and captured the city of Gaeta.
Important Roles After the War
After the War of Spanish Succession ended, Wirich Philipp von Daun took on several important leadership roles.
Viceroy of Naples
In 1713, Daun became the first Austrian Viceroy of Naples. A viceroy is like a governor who rules a country or region as the king's representative. Naples was a very important kingdom at that time.
War of the Quadruple Alliance
In 1718, Spain tried to invade Sicily, which was near Naples. Daun was involved in the War of the Quadruple Alliance. During this war, he lost the Battle of Milazzo.
Governor of the Habsburg Netherlands
From February to October 1725, Daun served as the temporary Governor of the Habsburg Netherlands. This area is now mostly Belgium and Luxembourg. His job was to get things ready for the new governor, Archduchess Maria Elisabeth of Austria. She was the sister of Emperor Charles VI.
The situation in the Austrian Netherlands was difficult. Daun worked to improve the army and how the government was run. He brought the local "Belgian" army into the larger imperial forces.
Governor of Milan
After his time in the Netherlands, Daun became the Governor of Milan. He held this position from 1725 until 1736. Milan was another important region in Italy.
Later Life and Legacy
Wirich Philipp von Daun died in Vienna in 1741. He was buried in the Georgskapelle of the Augustinerkirche. His son, Leopold Josef Graf Daun, who also became a famous military leader, was buried there too.
