The Battle of Kunersdorf, fought on August 12, 1759, during the Seven Years' War, was a significant and devastating defeat for Frederick the Great of Prussia. His forces, numbering around 50,000, faced a combined Russian and Austrian army of about 60,000 near Kunersdorf (now Kunowice, Poland). Frederick, hoping for a decisive victory, launched a series of aggressive attacks on the enemy’s fortified positions. However, his troops were exhausted and suffered heavy losses, and the terrain favored the defenders. By the end of the day, the Prussians lost over 18,000 men, nearly half of their army, and Frederick himself narrowly escaped capture. This battle left Prussia on the brink of collapse, but despite the disaster, the coalition forces failed to capitalize on their victory, allowing Frederick to recover in the following years.

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