Hessian Steel: Hesse’s Troops in the War of the Austrian Succession (1740–1748)

Hessian Steel: Hesse’s Troops in the War of the Austrian Succession (1740–1748) provides an in-depth analysis of the Hessian military’s role in one of 18th-century Europe’s most consequential conflicts. From official records and firsthand accounts, Friedrich Freiherr von Dalwigk zu Lichtenfels details how Hesse-Kassel, a key ally of Britain and Austria, supplied disciplined troops to fight against the French and Bavarians. The book explores the Hessian army’s contributions to major campaigns, including their involvement in Flanders, the defense of key fortresses such as Bergen op Zoom, and their participation in decisive battles like Fontenoy and Lauffeld. It also examines recruitment, logistics, and the challenges of maintaining an auxiliary force in a prolonged war. This comprehensive study sheds light on the strategic importance of Hessian forces and their enduring impact on 18th-century European warfare.

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