La Bataille de Deutsch Wagram 1809

major accomplishment. He continued his work on the reform of the Austrian army during this time and after the Austrian defeat in the War of the Third Coalition in 1805.

Karl’s participation in this conflict was as the commander of the Austrian forces in Italy. There he faced the French Army of Italy under Massena. The French and Austrians battled at Caldiero on October 30, 1805. The battle itself was hard-fought as any battle involving Karl would be. However, Massena was able to closely follow Karl’s army back into Austria and keep it separated from the French around Vienna. Thus, Karl’s forces, which numbered nearly 85,000, were not able to assist the Coalition forces at Austerlitz, a considerable factor in the Coalition’s defeat.

Archduke Charles in 1809

As the Austrians moved towards war in 1809, it was only natural that the General, who had the most success against the French, would be given the overall command. Karl’s

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