Chapter 9: Contact War
On February 1, 1864, the Prussian-Austrian Allied Forces reached the south bank of the Ada River. They utilized the cover of night and the mist that hung over the river to discreetly cross the river. The German Allied Army Command on the south bank mobilized all available ships and bridges to facilitate the crossing.
Tens of thousands of troops advanced along the winding Ada River, making their presence known despite their careful preparations. The Danish scouts could observe their movements, but Denmark was at a disadvantage given the overwhelming force of the coalition forces spread across the narrow terrain of the Jutland Peninsula.
The Ada River's twists and turns made it difficult to defend, and the gentle flow of the river made it impossible to hold. Building a defensive line stretching hundreds of miles along the river was an unrealistic task for Denmark with its limited population.
The vanguard of the coalition forces landed on the north bank and began constructing coastal positions. The Danish army watched from a distance, unable to act rashly.
The Danish military, as the defensive side and the weaker party, quickly relayed news of the German coalition forces' crossing to the capital, seeking government instructions. They needed to take appropriate measures and emphasize the gravity of the situation to shift responsibility to the enemy in case of failure.
The Danish government contacted foreign powers, including Britain, Russia, France, and Sweden, seeking assistance. While Britain expressed clear support for Denmark, they awaited domestic news before committing troops. Britain's naval strength made it hesitant to engage in a continental conflict.
On February 2, Prussia initiated a tentative attack on Danish positions, attempting to outflank the Danes. The clash between the two forces began with intense gunfire, artillery fire, and disciplined Prussian soldiers advancing steadily.
The Danish army, taking advantage of fortifications and terrain, successfully resisted the Prussian attack. The first wave of assault troops suffered casualties but did not falter. Eventually, the command ordered them to withdraw in an orderly manner, marking the end of the initial exchange of fire.
For Prussia, this was just a preliminary test, and the full force of the coalition had yet to be deployed. Denmark's diplomatic efforts had been insufficient, with Prussia gaining the support of Austria, the German Confederation, and the silence of France.
Britain offered verbal support to Denmark but refrained from sending troops due to its naval focus. Denmark still held the mouth of the Baltic Sea and had a developed economy, which could support a considerable military force.
Despite being a small country, Denmark had shown strength in the past, and the Danes maintained confidence in their abilities. While Ernst couldn't comprehend the source of this confidence, it didn't change the fact that Denmark was a determined opponent.
Prussia had secured alliances and neutralized diplomatic pressures, leaving Schleswig and Holstein as their potential gains. However, the final settlement depended on Austria, and Bismarck had a plan in mind.
(End of Chapter 9)