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Frederick the II is born
Frederick II is born in Berlin to his parents, Frederick William I of Prussia and Princess Sophia-Dorothea. -
Frederick is caught Escaping Prussia
Frederick and his best friend, attempt to escape to England,in part because of Frederick's miserable home life. They are caught and Frederick is forced to watch Hans' execution. -
Frederick begins to study political administration
Frederick's father pardons him and releases him from prison. He is forced to remain and study political administration in preparation for his future leadership. -
Frederick marries Elizabeth Christine of Brunswick-Bevern
Frederick's father arranges for him to marry Elizabeth Christine of Brunswick-Bevern, a purely political alliance. The marriage is ultimately unsuccessful. -
Frederick becomes leader of Prussia
Frederick's father dies and he ascends the throne as King in Prussia, taking over his father's powerful army and funds. He is immediately swept up into the political machinations overtaking Europe -
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Frederick begins the First Silesian War and conquers Silesia
Frederick invades the Austrian territory of Silesia without provocation, thus beginning the First Silesian War. Frederick makes peace with Silesia and becomes the ruler of nearly the entire region. -
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The 7 years War starts, and leaves Prussia as a major power
Hoping to preempt a conspiracy between Prussia's neighboring countries, Frederick invades Saxony, allied with Austria, and begins the Seven Years' War. The Seven Years' War formally ends, leaving Prussia without any new territory. Nevertheless, Frederick is allowed to keep Silesia and his country becomes known as one of the most powerful in Europe. -
Frederick participates in the First Partition of Poland
Frederick signs a treaty along with Russia and Austria that partitions Poland and removes 1/3 of its land area. The three countries divide up the winnings, gaining a lot of valuable provinces for Prussia. -
Frederick allies princes in the Fürstenbund
Frederick forms the Fürstenbund, an alliance of Protestant princes in the Holy Roman Empire. It meant to protect the empire and prevent Joseph II from adding Bavaria to the Habsburg empire. This alliance marks the first organization of German states under Prussia, which later will unify Germany. -
Frederick the Great dies
Frederick dies in Potsdam.
