In Italy, French forces advance on Magenta where they defeat the main Austrian army

French troops crossed the Po River and advanced on the rail center at Magenta. Out maneuvered, the weary Austrian main army suffered a heavy defeat after some ferocious fighting throughout the town and began a general retreat back across Lombardy. Casualties were heavy on both sides and the French captured 7000 prisoners. Defeat at the Battle of Magenta saw Austrian commander Guylai replaced. (By John Osborne)