The First Schleswig-Holstein War 1848-50

1848 was a turbulent but momentous time in Europe. Within this context, the Duchies of Schleswig and Holstein were caught between the rising nationalism and desire for unification of the Prussian/German nation states and the traditional alliances with the Danish Kingdom.

The Schleswig Holsteiners decided that allegiance with the German Federation, including possessing their own constitution, was the best way forward.

They rebelled against the Danish and looked to the Prussians with their greater military prowess for help.

In Denmark, as in other European countries, the call for a democratic constitution caused social disturbance, triggered initially by the February riots in Paris.

The Danish monarchy, in crisis, both constitutionally and in terms of monarchical succession continued to lay claim on their southernmost duchies and sent their armed forces to destroy the Schleswig-Holstein insurgents. The author describes the battles and battlefields upon which this crisis was played out: from the first major action at Bov (9 April, 1848) to the last major battles of the war.

This is a well-researched and well-illustrated study, including four pages of colour uniform plates. About the AuthorNick Svendsen is a well-respected military historian with a specialist interest in the 19th Century Danish Wars.

This is his first book.