Kolin 1757: Frederick The Great's First Defeat May 2026

Well-positioned Austrian artillery and musketry decimated the advancing Prussian columns.

At a critical moment, Frederick reportedly attempted to personally lead a charge, shouting at his retreating men: "Rascals, would you live forever?" . Consequences of the Defeat The battle had profound military and strategic impacts: Kolin 1757: Frederick the Great's First Defeat

After a costly victory at the in May 1757, Frederick besieged the city. However, the arrival of a relief army led by the methodical Marshal Daun forced Frederick to divide his forces to intercept the threat. Daun chose a strong defensive position on hills near Kolin , compelling Frederick to attack uphill against superior numbers. The Battle of Kolin: June 18, 1757 shouting at his retreating men: "Rascals