Battle of Oudenarde

battle_name=Battle of Oudenarde

Allied flanking maneuver

Marlborough moved his headquarters to the left flank, giving Eugène command of the right flank (which still opposed the left wing of the French army). However, when the right was under pressure, Marlborough made a brilliant command decision. He placed 18 newly arrived Hessian and Hanoverian battalions in the left flank, while removing 20 of Prussian General von Lottum's battalions, moving them to Eugène's support. This moved fresh troops to the critical left, while reinforcing the right flank (and resting Lottum's troops).

Related Topics:
Hessian - Hanoverian - Von Lottum's

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Marlborough then began formulating a new plan of double encirclement. He had the entire Dutch Army, under Field Marshal Count Overkirk, an experienced military officer. However, that force was unable to cross the collapsed pontoon bridges near Oudenarde, forcing him to use the stone bridges, delaying him for an hour. Marlborough went ahead with his plan, having Eugène's cavalry charge. It made for Burgundy's headquarters. However, the French Household Cavalry, the Maison du Roi, drove them back. Marlborough, with only the 18 Hessian and Hanoverian battalions, was unable to do much other than keep the French right in check.

Related Topics:
Dutch Army - Field Marshal - Count - Overkirk - Maison du Roi

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At about 20:30, Overkirk's troops, who had finally arrived, flanked the French right wing. This was in conjunction with a dual attack by Marlborough and Eugène. Overkirk's maneuver was completely successful, with much of the French army routing and/or being captured. However, there was not enough daylight to complete the maneuver.

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