BITVA 1866

The Austro-Prussian War of 1866 - the seven-week military conflict between Prussia and Austria in 1866 had a great impact on the development of Europe. The defeat of Austria in this struggle for supremacy in the German-speaking sphere of the continent was symbolised by the fateful battle of Hradec Králové on 3rd July 1866. This defeat had profound consequences for the Hapsburg monarchy. Austria lost its exclusive position of power in Central Europe and was forced to make political and power concessions as well as a settlement with Hungary. The emergence of Austria-Hungary, however, meant the reinforcement of ethnic animosity and it ultimately contributed to the collapse of the monarchy in 1918. On the other hand, the Prussian victory in 1866, after the subsequent defeat of France in 1871 opened a path to the political unification of Germany and the emergence of the German Empire. This layout of Europe lasted – despite the mutual animosity and competition of the main European powers – until the First World War. From this view point, the Austro-Prussian War of 1866 can be considered a historical prelude to both of world wars of 20th century.