📚 1740–48 War of the Austrian Succession,
Recommended Reading

Selected works on the War of the Austrian Succession

Overview of the War of the Austrian Succession

The War of the Austrian Succession (1740–1748) was a major European conflict that erupted following the death of Emperor Charles VI and the contested succession of his daughter, Maria Theresa of Austria. Nearly every major European power became involved, with fighting spreading across central Europe, Italy, the Low Countries, and overseas colonies.

The war pitted Austria and Britain against France, Prussia, Spain, and their allies in a struggle for influence and territory. Among the most significant campaigns was the rise of Frederick the Great, whose invasion of Silesia launched Prussia onto the European stage. Key battles such as Mollwitz (1741), Chotusitz (1742), Dettingen (1743), Fontenoy (1745), showcased evolving 18th-century tactics, with disciplined infantry lines, powerful artillery, and the growing use of cavalry manoeuvre.

For battlefield historians, the War of the Austrian Succession offers a window into the changing face of warfare between the dynastic wars of the 17th century and the global conflicts of the later 18th. The uniforms, weapons, and equipment from this period — muskets with socket bayonets, artillery pieces, and the distinctive dress of French, Austrian, Prussian, British, and other German regiments — reflect both tradition and transition.