Osprey Men-at-Arms 271 : The Austrian Army (1) 1740-1780 : Cavalry

Austria was both a major participant and one of the causes of hostilities in the wars of the mid-18th century. In one sense, however, 'Austria' is a misnomer, it being perhaps more accurate to refer to the entity of the 'Habsburg Empire'. The death of the Emperor Charles VI in October 1740 set in motion the first of the major wars of the time. Charles' heir was a daughter, Maria Theresa, who was destined become one of the greatest figures in the history of the 18th century, and who, through her presence and personality, was to consolidate the Empire's political unity. The Hapsburg territories were immense, and a second key unifying factor was the army itself, that embraced all nationalities and drew its personnel from Hapsburg lands and beyond. The first of three books which take a close look at the organisation, uniforms and equipment of the cavalry of the Austrian Army during Maria Theresa's reign, covering cuirassiers, dragoons, hussars, and chevauxleger. Text by Rene Chartrand with illustrations by Richard Hook.

Contents

• The Empire and Army
• Army Organisation
• The Cavalry
• Uniform and Equipment
• Regimental Details
• The Plates