Chapter 252: The Outbreak of War
On July 30, 1870, in the popularization front, Napoleon III and his staff faced a critical decision. They realized that Prussian troop mobilization was progressing rapidly due to the efficiency of Prussian railways. France's railways were not able to match Prussia's in terms of capacity and speed. This realization led to a sense of urgency among French military leaders.
Napoleon III was advised to launch an attack on Prussia immediately to interrupt their war mobilization. They believed that taking the initiative was the only way to attract Austria, Italy, and Denmark to join the French camp.
Foreign Minister Duke Gramont emphasized the importance of proactive action. Napoleon III made the decision to order all French troops to launch an attack on Prussian territory.
In a suburb of Saarbrucken-West, French troops encountered Prussian forces. Despite being outnumbered, the French soldiers demonstrated their combat experience and effectiveness. Lieutenant Camuel Lerao led his platoon in a successful engagement against a Prussian company. They used their Chasseport rifles and superior tactics to repel the Prussian attack.
This initial clash marked the outbreak of the war, with the sound of gunfire echoing across the region. The French Army of the Rhine had taken the initiative and engaged Prussian forces in combat.
Meanwhile, in the Prussian camp, the news of the French attack reached the commanders. Field Marshal Moltke ordered counterattacks and preparations for a decisive battle. He also coordinated with other Prussian armies to concentrate their forces against the French main army.
The Bavarian army, part of the Third Army, moved south to block the French army south of the Vosges Mountains from going north. Frederick III, the Crown Prince, organized his troops and assigned tasks to ensure the French army was pinned to the south of the Vosges Mountains.
The outbreak of war was characterized by initial skirmishes and a sense of urgency on both sides as they mobilized their forces for what would become a significant conflict.