text: **Commencement of fighting**
  
  Even before war was officially declared, hostilities began with Imperial aggression in Italy. Once finally declared, the War of the 
  Spanish Succession lasted almost until Louis's death, at great cost to him and France. 
  
  The war began with French successes, but the talents of John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough, and Eugene of Savoy checked 
  these victories and broke the myth of French invincibility. The duo allowed the Palatinate and Austria to occupy Bavaria after 
  their victory at the Battle of Blenheim. Maximilian II Emanuel, Elector of Bavaria, had to flee to the Spanish Netherlands. The 