Franco-Prussian War: One of the Main Causes of World War I

Historians have debated the exact motivations behind the war, particularly regarding the role of Otto von Bismarck, the Prussian chancellor. Some argue that Bismarck intentionally provoked France into declaring war to unite the southern German states—Baden, Württemberg, Bavaria, and Hesse-Darmstadt—under the North German Confederation. Other historians maintain that Bismarck exploited the situation as it developed, recognizing the potential for new alliances but not necessarily seeking war. Regardless of the intent, Bismarck saw the war as an opportunity to strengthen German unity.

The war officially began when France mobilized its army on 15 July 1870, prompting the North German Confederation to follow suit with its own mobilization the same day. On 16 July, the French parliament declared war on Prussia, and by 2 August, France had invaded German territory. The German coalition responded swiftly and efficiently, invading northeastern France on 4 August. The Germans had several advantages: superior numbers, better training, more effective leadership, and access to advanced military technology, especially in railways and artillery.