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The Battle of Blenheim (referred to in some countries as the Battle of Höchstädt) was a major battle of the War of the Spanish Succession, fought on 13 August 1704. At the battle, the forces of the Grand Alliance of England, Austria, the United Provinces, Prussia, Denmark, Hesse and Hanover were commanded by John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough, and Prince Eugene of Savoy. The French and Bavarian armies were commanded by Camille d'Hostun de la Baume, Duc de Tallard; Maximilian Emanuel, Elector of Bavaria, and Ferdinand, Comte de Marsin.

Blenheim was a decisive victory for the Grand Alliance, inflicting the first major defeat on the French in over 40 years, saving Vienna from the Franco-Bavarian army. The battle ended King Louis XIV's plans to dominate Europe and extend his royal power from Spain to the Low Countries, and from Germany to Italy. It also resulted in knocking Bavaria out of the war. The battle left over 30,000 men dead or wounded. (more...)