Chapter 37: War
On June 14, 1866, Prussia declared war against Austria, citing Austria's mismanagement of Holstein as the reason. The war began with lightning-fast Prussian attacks on the northern German states that supported Austria. The Prussian army swiftly took control of government organizations and railway hubs in these regions.
The German states that supported Prussia were small and lacked significant military strength. Most larger states sided with Austria, primarily due to the historical influence and power of the Habsburg family within the Austrian Empire.
The German Confederation Parliament rejected Prussia's attempts to resolve the German issue through diplomatic means, leading Prussia to realize it had few allies among the German states. Consequently, Prussia declared war on the smaller northern German states, which were surrounded by Prussia.
Prussia was determined to unify the northern part of Germany under its leadership, following the "small German plan." Small countries that did not align themselves with Prussia faced the possibility of being conquered.
The Prussian army's efficiency was bolstered by military reforms implemented by von Rohn in 1862. These reforms ensured universal conscription and created a well-trained and disciplined army. In contrast, the Austrian army lacked similar training, particularly among infantry.
The Prussian army was organized locally, with reserves living near their regimental depots, allowing for quick mobilization. Austria's policy, on the other hand, involved stationing troops far from home to prevent involvement in separatist insurgencies, resulting in slower mobilization.
Prussia's well-developed railway system and efficient rail network allowed for rapid troop concentration, giving them a logistical advantage over Austria. This enabled Prussia to concentrate its forces more quickly.
In the Bohemian battlefield, the main theater of the Prussian-Austrian War, both sides gathered hundreds of thousands of troops. Prussia's superior training, discipline, and logistical advantages allowed them to maintain a strategic edge.
Italy's presence in the south forced Austria to disperse its forces, further weakening its position. Austria even withdrew from Venetia voluntarily. Napoleon III agreed to support Austria but delayed intervention, underestimating Prussia.
The Battle of Konigretz (or Sadowa) on July 3 marked a significant Prussian victory against Austria, despite being outnumbered. Prussia's well-equipped and strategically sound forces inflicted heavy casualties on the Austrians.
While other German states had limited influence on the war, some faced Prussian forces. Hanover's army was defeated and subsequently besieged and surrendered. Bavaria faced Prussian forces in Nuremberg and Frankfurt, while Würzburg was besieged by the Prussians.
Simultaneously, Austria confronted Italy in naval battles, achieving victory at the Battle of Custoza on June 24 and the Battle of Lissa (off the coast of Vis, Croatia) on July 20.
(end of Chapter 37)