Kolin 1757: Frederick The Great's First Defeat 〈Plus · 2025〉

After a costly victory at the in May 1757, Frederick besieged the city. However, the arrival of a relief army led by the methodical Marshal Daun forced Frederick to divide his forces to intercept the threat. Daun chose a strong defensive position on hills near Kolin , compelling Frederick to attack uphill against superior numbers. The Battle of Kolin: June 18, 1757

Frederick’s plan relied on an oblique order attack to outflank the Austrian right wing. However, the execution failed due to several tactical errors: Kolin 1757: Frederick the Great's First Defeat

Frederick was forced to lift the siege on 20 June and withdraw entirely from Bohemia back into Saxony . After a costly victory at the in May

The victory revitalized Austrian morale and led to the creation of the Military Order of Maria Theresa to honor the achievement. Category Prussia Austria Commanders Frederick the Great Leopold von Daun Force Size Casualties ~13,700 - 14,000 ~8,000 - 8,100 Guns The Battle of Kolin: June 18, 1757 Frederick’s

Although Prussian cavalry initially drove back an Austrian counterattack, they were later crushed by fresh Austrian cavalry reserves.

Sources for details include Wikipedia , Warfare History Network , and British Battles . If you’re interested, I can provide more info on: The tactic Frederick famously used How he recovered from this loss at the Battle of Rossbach

At a critical moment, Frederick reportedly attempted to personally lead a charge, shouting at his retreating men: "Rascals, would you live forever?" . Consequences of the Defeat The battle had profound military and strategic impacts: