Frederick the Great, king of Prussia from 1740 to 1786, was one of the most remarkable men of the 18th century. Born the son of strict disciplinarian Frederick William I in 1712, he was a most precocious and obstinate young man, and until he actually became king, he never exhibited any signs of becoming a military genius. But the young king displayed an amazing aptitude for military life and plunged into war with Austria over the long-disputed province of Silesia.

The next 30 years of his life were consumed in wars against Austria, France, Russia, Sweden, and even England at times. After the Seven Years' War, the Prussian military acquired a formidable reputation across Europe. Esteemed for its efficiency and success in battle, the Prussian army of Frederick became a model emulated by other European powers, most notably by Russia and France, the latter of which quickly applied the lessons of Frederick's military tactics under the direction of Napoleon Bonaparte.

The most remarkable thing about Frederick’s life was his devotion to the arts, literature, and architecture. French alone was spoken at his court. He was a gifted musician, an admirer of Bach, and composed over 100 pieces for flute. His love of philosophy attracted thinkers from all over Europe, including Voltaire. Frederick became the very model of the enlightened despot. He promoted freedom of religion and was more tolerant of freedom of expression than other sovereigns.

When Frederick’s wars were over, he promoted trade and colonization into areas left devastated and depopulated by war. His brilliant organizational abilities bore fruit very quickly, and by the end of Frederick’s life, Prussia had become a very prosperous kingdom.

Listeners are urged to seek online sources for maps of the many battles described in this book.