Kaunitz, Wenzel Anton Dominik (1711-1794)

Austrian diplomat and politician, and one of the leading figures of the Enlightenment in Austria. As Austrian state chancellor and chief minister 1753-92, he was responsible for forming a coalition against Frederick the Great of Prussia during the Seven Years' War 1756-63.

Kaunitz was born in Vienna. He served at the diplomatic mission in Turin 1741-44, and was ambassador at the French court 1750-53, where he concluded an alliance between France and Austria. At home, he undertook administrative reorganization and reform of the churches.