The Austrian Army 1740–80 (1): Cavalry

Osprey Men at Arms #271

by Philip J. Haythornthwaite

Austria was both a major participant and one of the causes of hostilities in the wars of the mid-18th century. The death of the Habsburg Emperor Charles VI in October 1740 set in motion the first of the major wars of the time. His heir was a daughter, Maria Theresa, who was destined become one of the greatest figures in the history of the 18th century. The Hapsburg territories were immense, and a key unifying factor was the army itself, that embraced all nationalities and drew its personnel from Hapsburg lands and beyond. This title, the first in a sequence of three, takes a close look at the organisation, uniforms and equipment of the cavalry of the Austrian Army during Maria Theresa's reign, covering cuirassiers, dragoons, hussars, and chevauxleger.

Genres: Military History, History, 18th Century

48 pages, Paperback

Published July 28, 1994

About the author

Philip J. Haythornthwaite (born 1951) is an internationally respected and prolific author and historical consultant specializing in military history, uniforms and equipment. Whilst his main area of research is the Napoleonic Wars, his impressive list of publications covers a much wider range of periods from the English Civil War until WWI.

Reviews

[Sean Chick · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would have liked more on the tactics, but as always Haythornthwaite provides solid commentary.