On 24 July 1712 the French under Marshal Claude de Villars retook Denain, on the Scheldt, from the Allies under Prince Eugene of Savoy. It was a local, tactical win that became decisive because of Villars's relentless follow-up.
A surprise on the Scheldt
The fortified Allied camp at Denain was commanded by the Earl of Albemarle. His force was overwhelmed: fewer than 4,000 of his men escaped, and five Allied generals were captured or killed. About 24,000 to 26,000 French were engaged at Denain, against 8,500 to 10,500 Allied troops garrisoned there.1
Casualties are given as 500 to 2,100 French and 6,500 to 8,000 Allied.
Consequences
Villars retook Douai, Le Quesnoy and Bouchain. The Dutch and British moved toward a separate peace, and Eugene was forced to march the Imperial army back to Germany.
Frequently asked questions
When and where was the Battle of Denain?
It was fought on 24 July 1712 at Denain, in northern France, during the War of the Spanish Succession.
Who won the Battle of Denain?
The French, under Marshal Claude de Villars, won, and retook the town from the Allies.
Why was it decisive?
Villars's relentless follow-up made it decisive. He retook Douai, Le Quesnoy and Bouchain, and the Allied alliance began to break up.
Notes
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