ARMIES OF BISMARCK'S WARS: Prussia 1860-1867

1-195650

On July 3rd, 1866 a Prussian army overwhelmed and defeated an Austrian army near the fortress city of Koniggratz in a bloody battle that lasted all day -- turning Austria into a second-rate power in Germany and central Europe. Less than five years later, the Prussian-led army would defeat France and the Prussian King would be crowned Emperor of a united Germany.

Bruce Bassett-Powell's new book chronicles the growth of the Prussian Army from the end of the Napoleonic Wars to the reforms of the 1860s and then provides a full account of the wars against Denmark in 1864 and Austria in 1866. He shows how the confluence of three men's lives; King William I, Helmuth von Molkte and Otto von Bismarck provided the essential ingredients that created this victorious army.

The growth and influence of the General Staff is examined along with the recruitment and training of officers and men. He fully describes the organization of the army and the fledgling navy as well as the weapons with which they fought. In particular he gives a detailed account of their dress and accoutrements accompanied by 24 full-page color illustrations depicting over 70 uniforms.