By Reed Browning (Original Publication: 1993)
The Crucible of Conflict: A Global Study of the 1740–1748 War
Introduction: Reed Browning’s The War of the Austrian Succession is a sweeping, comprehensive narrative of the conflict that set the stage for the Seven Years' War. It is a rare volume that manages to balance the high-stakes diplomacy of European courts with the gritty tactical reality of the battlefield. Browning meticulously tracks the multi-theatre struggle—from the snowy fields of Mollwitz to the tropical heat of the West Indies—explaining how the death of Charles VI triggered a scramble for Habsburg territories that nearly extinguished the Austrian light.
The 6mm Connection: For our Baccus 6mm project, this book provides the essential "origin story" for our armies. Because this war saw the Prussian army in its infancy, Browning’s accounts of early battles help us differentiate the slightly less refined 24-figure infantry battalions of the 1740s from their later, more disciplined counterparts. The detailed Orders of Battle for the Pragmatic Army and the various French and Bavarian contingents allow us to accurately designate our Brigade commanders (two mounted Baccus figures) for mid-century scenarios, whilst our 12-figure cavalry regiments reflect the evolving shock tactics of the era. It is particularly useful for modelling the transition of the Austrian army as it began the reforms Maria Theresa so desperately championed.
Historical Insight: The true "lightbulb moment" in Browning’s work is his analysis of the Battle of Mollwitz. He vividly describes how the Prussian infantry—drilled to an inhuman standard by the "Old Dessauer"—stood their ground and won the day even after their cavalry, and Frederick himself, had fled the field. This highlights the importance of the overall commander stand (our three mounted Baccus figures); it shows that even when the general's nerve fails, the inherent quality of the units can carry the day. It also reinforces why I give my 3-gun 12-figure artillery batteries such a pivotal role in holding the line against superior enemy numbers.
Conclusion: The War of the Austrian Succession is a monumental work that rounds out our library by providing the necessary historical foundation. It ensures that when we play out the Third Silesian War, we understand the long-standing grudges and the hard-won lessons that informed every commander on the field. It is a scholarly yet accessible guide that treats this often-overlooked war with the strategic depth and narrative flair it deserves.
Rating: 5 out of 5 Muskets.
What do you think?
Have you read this volume? Let me know in the comments if you’ve used this research to inform your painting or game strategy!
Related project hubs for this period:
[The Silesian Wars 1740-1763 Project Hub] | [The Strategic Campaigns Hub]
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