Battle of Kunersdorf

European history

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June 30, 2026

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The Battle of Kunersdorf, fought on August 12, 1759, was a significant engagement during the Seven Years' War. In this battle, Frederick the Great's Prussian army clashed with a combined Austro-Russian force. Despite Frederick's bold assault, the battle resulted in a devastating defeat for Prussia, with over 18,000 casualties. This disaster temporarily plunged Frederick into despair and nearly led to the collapse of Prussia. The battle's outcome was a testament to the formidable strength of the allied forces and highlighted the immense challenges Prussia faced in the conflict.12

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Frederick II
Trials and lessons of Frederick II
…of a Russian army at Kunersdorf in August 1759. This disaster temporarily reduced him to despair and thoughts of suicide; if it had been effectively followed up by his adversaries, he could not have continued the struggle. As the forces he could put in the field dwindled and resistance grew…
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…of a Russian army at Kunersdorf in August 1759. This disaster temporarily reduced him to despair and thoughts of suicide; if it had been effectively followed up by his adversaries, he could not have continued the struggle. As the forces he could put in the field dwindled and resistance grew…
Read More

Seven Years’ War
1759
…assailed the Austro-Russian position at Kunersdorf (now Kunowice, Poland), east of Frankfurt, on August 12. The result was an appalling disaster for Frederick, who in six hours lost more than 18,000 men. Saltykov made no immediate use of his victory, but Daun, advancing against the diminished Prussian forces in Saxony,…
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…assailed the Austro-Russian position at Kunersdorf (now Kunowice, Poland), east of Frankfurt, on August 12. The result was an appalling disaster for Frederick, who in six hours lost more than 18,000 men. Saltykov made no immediate use of his victory, but Daun, advancing against the diminished Prussian forces in Saxony,…
Read More