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May 16, 2016
King Frederick II of Prussia, known as "the Great," brilliantly sustained the well-run state he inherited from his father, Frederick I. Yet in all other respects the younger Frederick was the opposite of his predecessor, who had physically abused him and rejected the music, art, and philosophy he loved. In this "magnificently wrought" (Booklist, starred review) biography, historian Tim Blanning explores Frederick II's psychology while detailing his life and vividly chronicling his accomplishments. General biography lovers and fans of 18th-century European history will find this an engaging study.