Raab

14 June, 1809

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Pushing a nervous Archduke John back from North Italy towards Hungary, Eugene Beauharnais was given confidence by reports of the French victories at Abensberg and Eckmuhl.

His opponent, however, was later buoyed by the news of the setback to Napoleon Bonaparte's campaign at Aspern-Essling and decided to fight his pursuer.

John set up his 35,000 troops in a defensive position overlooking the Raab river and split off his main body of cavalry to guard excellent horse terrain in the plain below.

Eugene had only 24,000 men, but gained support from Marshal Macdonald and his 9000-strong corps.

He sent a diversionary move against the Austrian horsemen and, in mid-afternoon, sent his infantry against the strong positions John had prepared.

Eugene's move against the enemy cavalry brought unexpected results as the French horse artillery began to inflict heavy losses upon the Austrians who eventually fled.

With his flank broken, and under extreme pressure from the main French attack, John sent part of his army into the fortress at Raab and withdrew the remainder. The Austrians lost some 5000 men to Eugene's 3000.

Eugene surrounded the fortress and after 11 days it surrendered. He then moved off to link up with his stepfather in time for the battle of Wagram.