Ernst Gideon von Laudon
An Austrian field marshal whose stunning victories over Frederick the Great's Prussians made him a Habsburg hero and a folk legend.
1717–1790 (age 73)·Austrian general·Birthday: February 2
Biography
Ernst Gideon von Laudon was a soldier of fortune who became one of Austria's most revered military commanders. Born in Livonia to a noble but impoverished family, he served in several armies before finding his destiny with the Habsburgs. His rise was built on a reputation for stern discipline, tactical boldness, and a knack for seizing the decisive moment. Laudon's fame was cemented during the Seven Years' War, where he emerged as the most capable Austrian foe of the brilliant Prussian king, Frederick the Great. His capture of the mighty fortress of Schweidnitz in 1761 was a masterstroke that crippled Prussian logistics. Though he sometimes clashed with the cautious Austrian high command, his victories made him a popular icon; songs and poems celebrated 'Father Laudon.' Appointed Field Marshal and commander-in-chief late in life, he remained a symbol of Austrian martial resilience until his death.
#1 When Ernst Was Born
The biggest hits of 1717
Ernst's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1717Born
1722Started school
1730Became a teenager
1733Could drive
1735Could vote
1738Turned 21
1747Turned 30
1757Turned 40
1767Turned 50
1777Turned 60
1787Turned 70
1790Died at 73
Key Achievements
- Decisively defeated Frederick the Great at the Battle of Kunersdorf in 1759, a major blow to Prussia.
- Masterminded the successful siege and capture of the key Silesian fortress of Schweidnitz in 1761.
- Was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Austrian army in 1778 during the War of the Bavarian Succession.
- Elevated to the rank of Field Marshal and made a Freiherr (Baron) in recognition of his service.
Did You Know?
The German children's folk song 'Heiliger Sankt Laurentius' is about Laudon's siege of Schweidnitz.
Before joining the Austrian army, he briefly served in the Russian and Prussian militaries.
A type of 18th-century military coat, the 'Laudon,' was named after him.
He is buried in the town of Hadersdorf, now part of Vienna, where a park bears his name.
“The enemy is before us, and God is above us.”
