The fighting in Europe during the Seven Years War hung in the balance. After initial successes the Austro-French forces had been driven back across the Rhine. With the opposing sides reinforcing their armies, the campaign of 1759 was going to prove decisive. Britain and her German allies met the French at Minden in Germany. Due to a misunderstanding of orders the British infantry actually attacked and dispersed the French cavalry. That action is still commemorated on 1 August each year with the wearing of roses by the infantry and artillery regiments whose predecessors picked flowers and put them in their coats as they passed through German gardens on the way to the battle. By contrast Lord Sackville, who commanded the British cavalry, was accused of ignoring orders to charge the retreating French which could have turned defeat into rout. He was court-martialled and cashiered. The victory at Minden was just one in a number of British successes that years against French forces and overseas territories across the globe. This led to 1759 being described by the British as the Annus Mirabilis - the year of miracles. AUTHOR: Stuart Reid was born in Aberdeen in 1954 into a family with a tradition of service in the Army, stretching back through the Battle of Mons to Culloden and beyond. He is the author of numerous military history books, including 'Hungry Like Wolves' which is widely regarded as the definitive study of the Battle of Culloden, and Sheriffmuir 1715, also by Frontline SELLING POINTS: ? Long awaited modern study of this pivotal battle of the Seven Years War, a battle which changed the course of the conflict in the European theatre. ? Analyses Lord Sackville's controversial handling of the cavalry. 16 illustrations
