Treaty of Dresden: February 18, 1745

Background

The Treaty of Dresden marked the conclusion of the Second Silesian War, a conflict embedded within the larger framework of the War of the Austrian Succession. This war pitted the forces of Prussia, under King Frederick II (known as Frederick the Great), against those of the Electorate of Saxony and the Habsburg Monarchy.

The roots of the conflict lay in the earlier First Silesian War, where Prussia had successfully seized control over Silesia from Austria. Despite attempts by Austria to regain the territory, Frederick II’s military campaigns had maintained Prussian dominance in the region. The ongoing struggle for supremacy over Silesia was both a military and economic concern, as the region was rich in resources and strategically located.

Events Leading to the Treaty

The Second Silesian War was effectively a continuation of the disputes left unresolved by the Treaty of Breslau in 1742. Renewed hostilities erupted as Frederick sought to preemptively secure Prussia’s hold over Silesia amid the ongoing War of the Austrian Succession.

Key battles during this conflict, such as the Battle of Hohenfriedberg on June 4, 1745, demonstrated Prussian military prowess and weakened Saxon and Austrian resolve, setting the stage for diplomatic negotiations. The Prussian victories, particularly the decisive engagements led by Frederick himself, pressured the Saxons and their allies to consider a diplomatic resolution.

The Treaty

Signed on February 18, 1745, in Dresden, the treaty cemented Prussia’s control over Silesia, compelling Saxony and Austria to acknowledge Frederick’s claims. The terms dictated that Saxony would abandon its military operations against Prussia and its support for the Habsburg aims to regain Silesia.

Aftermath and Significance

The Treaty of Dresden had several lasting impacts:

• Consolidation of Prussian Power: The treaty permanently incorporated Silesia into Prussian territory, significantly enhancing Prussia’s economic and military base.
• Shifting Alliances: The agreement highlighted the shifting alliances of the War of the Austrian Succession, as Saxony’s exit from the conflict weakened the Habsburg Austrian campaign.
• Frederick the Great’s Reputation: Frederick’s successful conduct in the war solidified his reputation as a formidable military strategist, enhancing his standing among European monarchs and within the Prussian state.

Ultimately, the Treaty of Dresden exemplified the rising influence of Prussia as a major European power, setting the stage for its pivotal role in the continent’s future geopolitical developments.