Gideon Ernst Laudon Baron, Generalissimo, famous Austrian military leader during the Seven Years' War. Date of Birth: 13.02.1717 Country: Austria

1. Early Life and Military Beginnings
2. Service in the Russo-Turkish War and Prussian and Austrian Armies
3. War of Austrian Succession and the Outbreak of the Seven Years' War
4. The Seven Years' War: Triumphs and Setbacks
5. Success in Silesia and Command Struggles
6. Later Service and Legacy

Early Life and Military Beginnings

Baron Gideon Ernst von Laudonwas born in 1717 into a family with Scottish roots in Livonia. In 1732, he entered Russian service and participated in the siege of Danzig (1734) and marched to the Rhine with Lassi's corps (1735).

Service in the Russo-Turkish War and Prussian and Austrian Armies

In the Russo-Turkish War (1736-1739), Laudon served with distinction. After the war, he sought redress for service conflicts but was unsuccessful, leading him to leave Russian service. He attempted to join the Prussian army but was rejected and instead became a captain in the Austrian irregular corps led by Baron von Trenck in 1742.

War of Austrian Succession and the Outbreak of the Seven Years' War

During the War of Austrian Succession, Laudon was severely wounded and converted to Catholicism. He served at the border until the start of the Seven Years' War. In 1757, he distinguished himself in battles and was promoted to colonel, commanding Austrian light cavalry in Saxony against the Prussians.

The Seven Years' War: Triumphs and Setbacks

Laudon played a crucial role in the Austrian victories at Kolin and Hochkirch, receiving the Order of Maria Theresa and the title of baron. He led a corps at the Battle of Kunersdorf, contributing significantly to the Prussian defeat. His victory over General Fouqué at Landeshut led to the capture of Glatz. However, he suffered a setback at Liegnitz and blamed his enemies.

Success in Silesia and Command Struggles

In 1761, Laudon led an independent corps in Silesia, capturing the fortress of Schweidnitz. Despite his successes, he was removed from command due to the machinations of his rival Daun.

Later Service and Legacy

After Daun's death in 1766, Laudon rejoined the army. In 1778, he became a field marshal and later commanded Austrian forces in Bohemia against Prussia. In 1788, he became commander-in-chief against Turkey, inflicting severe defeats and capturing Belgrade. He was promoted to generalissimo after the successful conclusion of the war. In 1790, he assumed command of the army intended to fight Prussia, but his death prevented him from participating in the conflict.

Laudon's military prowess and strategic acumen earned him a reputation as one of the most brilliant Austrian generals of the 18th century. His legacy and contributions to Austrian military history continue to be celebrated.