Battle of Schellenberg

The Battle of Schellenberg: A Turning Point in the War of Spanish Succession

Imagine a pivotal moment in history where the fate of nations hung in the balance. The Battle of Schellenberg, fought on July 2, 1704, during the War of the Spanish Succession, was such an event. This battle, part of Duke Marlborough’s campaign to save Vienna from a Franco-Bavarian advance, set the stage for one of history’s most significant engagements: the Battle of Blenheim.

The Strategic Importance and Initial Stages

Marlborough, with his strategic acumen, decided to attack the Schellenberg heights above Donauwörth. Despite two failed attempts to storm the barricades, the Allies finally overpowered the defenders after just two hours of fighting. However, momentum was lost due to indecision, and the Elector’s lands were devastated without bringing him to battle or persuading him to rejoin the Imperial fold.

Was it a missed opportunity? Or perhaps a tactical necessity that paved the way for greater victories later on?

The Battle in Detail

On July 2, the Allies launched a surprise attack with 5,850 foot soldiers under Viscount Mordaunt. Despite initial success, the attackers were pinned down by musket- and grape-shot, suffering heavy casualties before being forced to fall back. The second assault was no more successful, as the red-coated English and blue-coated Dutch advanced into a torrent of fire.

As the battle raged on, Marlborough received intelligence that the defences were weakly manned on the left flank. This information proved crucial. The Margrave of Baden seized this opportunity to launch an assault with his grenadiers, breaching the weakened defences and defeating the defenders.

The Turning Point: Third Assault and Victory

With the enemy’s position compromised, Marlborough launched a third assault, forming a broader front. Despite initial confidence, the defenders soon realized they were surrounded by both Imperial and Allied troops. As the enemy closed in, Marlborough unleashed cavalry and dragoons to pursue and slaughter the fleeing Franco-Bavarian army.

However, the victory came at a cost. Over 5,000 Allied troops became casualties, including six lieutenant-generals, four major-generals, and 28 brigadiers, colonels, and lieutenant-colonels. The battle produced usual spoils of war but caused consternation among senior officers.

Aftermath and Consequences

The victory set the stage for the decisive Battle of Blenheim the following month. However, both commanders could not agree on their next move, resulting in a siege of Rain. The Emperor wrote personally to Marlborough praising his celerity and vigour in fighting the enemy.

But the battle had a protracted anti-climax. The transfer of Bavaria from the Two Crowns to the Grand Alliance was a prime concern for the Allies, who launched raids into Bavaria to lure the Elector into battle or convince him to change allegiance.

The Impact on the War

Marlborough intensified the policy of devastating the Elector’s territory as Tallard’s reinforcements arrived in Bavaria. On July 16, the Duke wrote to Heinsiyus about advancing into Bavaria to destroy the country and compel the Elector to comply.

The Empire’s failure to provide a siege train had delayed the Allies’ victory. Prince Eugene was concerned about the lack of decisive action following the Schellenberg victory, writing that the Elector should be compelled to change allegiance instead of simply being defeated.

Conclusion

The Battle of Schellenberg was a complex and multifaceted engagement. It showcased the strategic brilliance of Duke Marlborough while also highlighting the challenges faced by Allied commanders in coordinating their efforts. As we reflect on this pivotal battle, it serves as a reminder that even in victory, there are lessons to be learned.