Franco-Prussian War

The Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871) was a conflict between France and Prussia, a German kingdom. It was triggered by tensions over German unification and the candidacy of a Prussian prince for the Spanish throne. Prussia, led by Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, sought to unite German states under its leadership. The war resulted in a decisive Prussian victory, leading to the fall of the French Empire and the proclamation of the German Empire in 1871. This shift in power significantly altered the political landscape in Europe, setting the stage for future conflicts, including World War I.