War of the Bavarian Succession

The War of the Bavarian Succession: A Prelude to Modern Warfare

Imagine a world where empires clashed not just on battlefields but through intricate webs of diplomacy and intrigue. The War of the Bavarian Succession (1778-1779) was such an episode, a microcosm of the complex political landscape of 18th-century Europe. This conflict, often overshadowed by larger wars like the Seven Years’ War, holds lessons for us today.

The Spark: Charles Theodore’s Claim

Charles Theodore, a member of the House of Wittelsbach, had a legitimate claim to the Electorate of Bavaria after Maximilian III Joseph died in 1777. However, his cousin Charles II August was considered the heir presumptive due to closer kinship. This simple fact set the stage for a complex dance of alliances and ambitions.

Prussia’s Role: A Shield or Sword?

King Frederick the Great of Prussia supported Charles August’s claim, seeing it as a way to maintain Bavaria’s territorial integrity. Elector Frederick August III of Saxony wanted to preserve his brother-in-law’s position. France and Russia became involved, each seeking to maintain the balance of power in Europe.

The Diplomatic Dance: A Game of Chess

Charles Theodore’s claim was seen as a final example of an ‘old-style cabinet war’ where troops maneuvered while diplomats traveled between capitals. Charles Albert of Bavaria claimed the Habsburg territory and Imperial title, but lacked military support. He secured the Treaty of Nymphenburg and invaded Upper Austria, only to face diplomatic complications.

Joseph II’s Ambitions: A Double-Edged Sword

Joseph II coveted Bavaria to strengthen Habsburg-Lorraine influence in German-speaking lands. After failing to secure an heir through marriage, he negotiated a secret agreement with Charles Theodore in 1778. This move was seen as a direct challenge to Prussia’s growing power.

The Mobilization: A Showdown of Armies

When Max Joseph died, the electoral equerry proclaimed Charles Theodore’s succession. Austrian troops occupied Mindelheim, and Frederick’s envoys convinced Charles August to lodge protests with the Imperial Diet in Regensburg, leading to an Austrian occupation of Bavaria. Prussian troops mobilized near Bohemia’s border, prompting a diplomatic crisis.

The Battlefields: A War of Attrition

Despite the large armies mobilized, only minor skirmishes took place. The war consisted of raids and counter-raids, with armies living off the countryside. Frederick realized the campaign was lost and decided not to risk an attack. The four armies remained in place until September, bombarding each other from their advantageous positions.

The Treaty of Teschen: A Temporary Resolution

In the end, Maria Theresa returned Lower Bavaria to Charles Theodore but kept the Innviertel. Saxony received a financial reward for its role in the intervention. Despite its short duration, the war itself cost Prussia 33 million florins and Austria 65 million florins.

Lessons Learned: The Evolution of Warfare

The War of the Bavarian Succession was the last European war of the old style, where armies maneuvered sedately at a distance while diplomats hustled between capitals. Given the length of time—six months—the cost in life and treasure was high. In light of the scale of warfare experienced in Europe less than a generation later, though, this six-month engagement seems mild.

The underlying problem was not solved: Joseph’s foreign policy dictated the expansion of Habsburg influence over German-speaking territories, aiming to counter Prussia’s growing strength. This conflict reflected the Austro-Prussian dualism that would dominate the unification movement and the French Revolutionary Wars.

The War of the Bavarian Succession was a microcosm of 18th-century European politics, where diplomacy and military might intertwined. It serves as a reminder that even in today’s complex world, understanding historical conflicts can provide valuable insights into current geopolitical dynamics.