1743

War of the Austrian Succession

The disputed succession of Maria Theresa of Austria was causing problems on the continent. Maria had succeeded to the throne when her father, Holy Roman Emperor Charles VI, died suddenly in 1740. She was named Archduchess of Austria and Queen of Bohemia and Hungary. The succession was in accordance with the Pragmatic Sanction of 1713 which was approved by all the main European powers. In violation of the Sanction, she was challenged several times by contenders invading her territory. Firstly, Frederick II of Prussia attacked Silesia. Then the Elector of Bovaria, Charles Albert, claimed Austria in 1741 and was supported by France and Spain.

Britain and Hanover continued to abide by the 1713 Sanction and were drawn into the war during this year.

George II's victory

On June 27, George II led combined forces from Britain, Hanover and Austria into battle at Dettingen, Bavaria. He defeated the opposing French and Bavarian armies. The battle was the last time a British monarch led his troops on the battlefield.