Effects of the Wars with Denmark (1864) and Austria (1866) on Prussia

Second Schleswig War (1864) – vs. Denmark

• Territorial gain: Prussia annexed Schleswig, Holstein, Lauenburg.
• Prestige: Military reputation enhanced.
• Rivalry: Tensions with Austria over administration (Gastein Convention).
• Diplomatic isolation: Strained relations with France, others.

Austro‑Prussian War (1866) – vs. Austria

• Prussian dominance: Dissolved German Confederation; formed North German Confederation (excl. Austria).
• Austria weakened: Lost German leadership; shifted focus to Balkans.
• Annexations: Hanover, Hesse‑Kassel, Nassau, Frankfurt.
• Path to unification: Set stage for Franco‑Prussian War (1870) and German Empire (1871).

Together, these wars made Prussia the undisputed master of northern Germany.