Franco-Prussian War

Franco-Prussian War

The Franco-Prussian War (19 July 1870 – 10 May 1871), also known as the Franco-German War, was a conflict between the Second French Empire of Napoleon III and the North German Confederation led by the Kingdom of Prussia. The war marked the end of French hegemony in continental Europe and resulted in the creation of a unified Germany.

Origins of the War

The origins of the Franco-Prussian War are rooted in the conflict and jealousy between Napoleon III and Otto von Bismarck, the Chancellor of the Kingdom of Prussia. The dispute was over the candidacy of a Hohenzollern prince to the Spanish throne, which was seen as a Prussian attempt to extend its influence.

Course of the War

The war began when the French declared war on Prussia on 19 July 1870. The Prussian forces were superior in numbers, better trained and better equipped. By September 1870, Paris was under siege, and the French government had fled to Bordeaux.

Aftermath of the War

The war ended with the signing of the Treaty of Frankfurt on 10 May 1871. The treaty stipulated that France had to pay a large indemnity and cede the border provinces of Alsace and Lorraine to Germany. The war had a profound impact on the balance of power in Europe and led to the conditions that brought about World War I.

See also

• Second French Empire
• Otto von Bismarck
• Treaty of Frankfurt