1. France: With territorial ambitions in Europe, France sought to expand its influence in the German states, particularly in the Rhineland and the Palatinate.
2. Austria: As the dominant power in the Holy Roman Empire, Austria aimed to maintain its control over the German states and resist French expansion.
3. Prussia: Under the leadership of ambitious rulers like Frederick William I and Frederick the Great, Prussia emerged as a major military power and competed with Austria for influence in the German states.
4. Great Britain: Primarily involved as an ally of Austria and Prussia in the major European wars, Britain sought to balance the power dynamics and prevent French dominance.
5. Russia: Although not directly involved in the battles for control of German states, Russia played a crucial role in shaping the geopolitical landscape by aligning itself with Austria or Prussia at various times.
These countries formed alliances and engaged in a series of military conflicts, diplomatic negotiations, and territorial disputes to gain control or maintain their influence in different German states. The outcomes of these conflicts ultimately shaped the political landscape of Germany in the 18th century.
