Frederick the Great: A Military History

Frederick the Great is one of history’s most important leaders. Famed for his military successes and domestic reforms, his campaigns were a watershed in the history of Europe – securing Prussia’s place as a continental power and inaugurating a new pattern of total war that was to endure until 1916.

However, much myth surrounds this enigmatic man – his personality and his role as politician, warrior and king. Showalter’s cleverly written book provides a refreshing, multidimensional depiction of Frederick the Great and an objective, detailed reappraisal of his military, political and social achievements.

Early chapters set the scene with an excellent summary of 18th century Europe – The Age of Reason; an analysis of the character, composition and operating procedures of the Prussian army; and explore Frederick’s personality as a young man. Later chapters examine his stunning victories at Rossbach and Leuthen, his defeats at Prague and Kolin and Prussia’s emergence as a key European power.

Written with style and pace, this book offers brilliant insights into the political and military history of the 18th century, and one of history’s most famous rulers.