The Battle of Piacenza occurred in the context of the ongoing War of the Austrian Succession, which began in 1740 following the death of Emperor Charles VI and the ascension of Maria Theresa. Numerous European powers vied for influence and control over various territories, leading to significant military engagements across the continent. The Franco-Spanish forces sought to extend their dominance in Northern Italy, while the Austrian and Sardinian alliance aimed to safeguard their territories and push back against hostile advances.

On June 16, 1746, the forces under the command of Austrian general Franz Leopold von Daun, allied with the Sardinian troops led by Prince Eugene of Savoy, faced a joint Franco-Spanish army led by the Prince of Conti. The battle occurred near the city of Piacenza in modern-day Italy, where the allies executed a series of strategic maneuvers. The well-coordinated tactics of the Austrians and Sardinians ultimately overwhelmed the enemy forces, resulting in a decisive victory.

The implications of the battle were far-reaching, as it not only boosted the morale of the allied troops but also shifted the strategic landscape in Northern Italy. The defeat of the Franco-Spanish army curtailed their ambitions in the region and allowed the Austrians and Sardinians to consolidate their positions and fortify their claims in the ongoing conflict. Piacenza became a symbol of resilience against the Franco-Spanish hegemony in Europe during this tumultuous period.