The (18 June 1757) was the first major defeat for Frederick the Great , ending his aura of invincibility and forcing him to abandon his planned march on Vienna . Fought during the Seven Years' War , the battle saw approximately 54,000 Austrian troops under Marshal Leopold von Daun decisively defeat 34,000 Prussian soldiers. Strategic Context
Although Prussian cavalry initially drove back an Austrian counterattack, they were later crushed by fresh Austrian cavalry reserves. Kolin 1757: Frederick the Great's First Defeat
Prussian infantry, harassed by Austrian Grenzers (light infantry), turned to attack the Austrian center too early, resulting in a piecemeal frontal assault instead of the intended flanking maneuver. The (18 June 1757) was the first major
Frederick’s plan relied on an oblique order attack to outflank the Austrian right wing. However, the execution failed due to several tactical errors: 700 - 14
The victory revitalized Austrian morale and led to the creation of the Military Order of Maria Theresa to honor the achievement. Category Prussia Austria Commanders Frederick the Great Leopold von Daun Force Size Casualties ~13,700 - 14,000 ~8,000 - 8,100 Guns