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.