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Birth
Frederick II was born on January 24, 1712, in present-day Berlin, Germany, to Frederick William I of Prussia and Sophia Dorothea of Hanover. -
Released from prison
Frederick escaped to England with a friend, Katte. They were captured in Küstrin. Instead of punishing Frederick, Katte was beheaded in front of him. -
Marriage to Elisabeth Christine of Brunswick-Bevern
On June 12, 1733, Frederick II married Elisabeth Christine of Brunswick-Bevern despite having little in common with her, as their marriage was a political marriage. -
Death of Father
Frederick William I passed away May 31, 1740, passing the throne to 28-year-old Frederick II. -
Frederick ascends throne to Prussia
Frederick I took the throne of Prussia in 1740 after his father's death. -
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First Silesian War
Prussia's war against Austria. Frederick II invaded Habsburg Silesia, inherited by Maria Theresa -
Battle of Mollwitz
This was Frederick's first victory in battle, but had no effect on him as a leader. -
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Second Silesian War
Frederick II continues to fight Maria Theresa to gain control of Austria. -
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Seven Years' War
The Third Silesian War was a theater of the Seven Years' War. This begins when Frederick the II of Prussia invades Saxony. -
Treaty of Amity and Commerce
Frederick II signed the Treaty of Amity and Commerce to recognize the United States as an independent nation, and established an economic alliance. -
Death
Frederick died in his armchair in his study at age 74
