Prussian king who built Prussia into a great European power through military genius (the oblique order), administrative reform, and philosophical enlightenment — transforming Prussia from a minor German state into the nucleus of what would become Germany.
Developed the oblique order as a tactical doctrine — concentrating force against one enemy flank while holding with the other — and demonstrated that intellectual cultivation (Voltaire's friend, accomplished flutist) and military ruthlessness were not contradictory but complementary.
Discussing
Ask anything about Frederick the Great — their ideas, influences, contradictions, legacy.
Sign in to start a conversation.