An in-depth look at one of the biggest set-piece battles and one of the most decisive in European history pre-WWI. Growing friction between the centuries-old Austrian Empire, self-styled guardian of Germany, and the smaller but more dynamic Prussian Empire led to war between the two countries. In June 1866, three Prussian armies crossed into Bohemia, and brushed aside the hastily assembled Austrian forces that stood in their path. The battered Austrians fell back to the town of Konnigratz (now the Czech city of Hradec Kralove) on the River Elbe, where their reserves were waiting. The battle began on 3 July and resulted in a Prussian victory. Expert historian Angus Konstam explores this critical battle of the Austro-Prussian War, examining what the Prussian victory meant for the political landscape and how it led to the modern German state. Featuring stunning artwork, detailed maps and period images, this book also highlights how advanced Industrial Age technology played an important role, and how more modern tactics fought against the old style.

Autorentext
Angus Konstam is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and has written widely on naval history, with well over a hundred books in print. He is a former Royal Navy officer, maritime archaeologist and museum curator, who has worked in the Royal Armouries, Tower of London, and Mel Fisher Maritime Museum. Now a full-time author and historian, he lives in Orkney. Manuel Krommenacker studied History at the University of strasbourg, France. With over 10 years of experience as a freelance digital illustrator and concept artist, his work regularly appears in various publications, including the French periodical Guerres & Histoire. He is currently working in the video game industry.

Inhalt
Introduction
Chronology
Origins of the Campaign
Opposing Commanders
Opposing Forces and Orders of Battle
Opposing Plans
The Campaign
Aftermath
The Battlefield Today
Further Reading
Index