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Maurice de SaxeMarshal of France (1744), Count (1711).
Date of Birth: 28.10.1696
Country:  France |
Content:
- Birth and Early Life
- Military Career
- French Service
- War of the Austrian Succession
- Campaign in Flanders
- Later Life and Death
- Literary Legacy
Birth and Early Life
Maurice de Saxe was born on October 28, 1696, in Goslar, Germany. He was an illegitimate son of Frederick Augustus I, Elector of Saxony and future King of Poland. From an early age, he showed a keen interest in military pursuits, which was encouraged by his family.
Military Career
Early ServiceAt the age of 24, Maurice served in three European armies: the Saxon, Polish, and Austrian. He gained valuable experience and honed his military skills during these campaigns. In the Northern War (1700-1721), he played a role in the siege of Stralsund, a Swedish fortress on the Baltic Sea coast.
French Service
In 1724, Maurice joined the French Royal Army, where he served under the title of Comte de Saxe, bestowed on him by his father in 1711. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a general-lieutenant and a close advisor to King Louis XV's mistress, Madame de Pompadour.
War of the Austrian Succession
Maurice de Saxe played a significant role in the War of the Austrian Succession (1740-1748). He commanded French troops in the Bavarian campaign and led the successful assault on Prague in 1741. In 1744, he was promoted to Marshal of France, the highest military rank in the kingdom.
Campaign in Flanders
As commander of the French Moselle Army, Maurice led a series of victories in Flanders in 1745. He conquered Tournai, Ghent, and Brussels, and his army prevailed in the Battle of Fontenoy. In 1746 and 1747, he achieved further victories at Rocoux and Lauffeld, securing French dominance in the region.
Later Life and Death
Maurice de Saxe was known not only for his military successes but also for his extravagant lifestyle. He spent much of the wealth of his first wife on lavish parties. He died suddenly on November 30, 1750, at the age of 54, reportedly in the company of eight young actresses.
Literary Legacy
Maurice de Saxe left behind a significant literary legacy. His treatise "Mes Rêveries" ("My Dreams"), published posthumously in 1756, remains a valuable source on military strategy and the organization of European states. It stands as a testament to his profound understanding of warfare and his enduring influence on French military history.
