Wanderlust World Wanderlust World The German states—hundreds of semi-sovereign entities within the Holy Roman Empire—were the central chessboard of 18th-century European power politics. Five major powers vied for influence:
As elected Holy Roman Emperors, the Habsburgs sought to preserve imperial authority and prevent any single German state (especially Prussia) from challenging their primacy. Key goal: maintain the status quo in the Empire.
Under Frederick William I ("Soldier King") and Frederick the Great, Prussia pursued "Lesser Germany" dominance—expanding territory (Silesia, West Prussia), modernizing its army, and challenging Austria for leadership of the German world.
Louis XIV and Louis XV aimed to keep Germany fragmented. They subsidized weaker German princes (Bavaria, Saxony, Palatinate), occupied the Rhineland, and opposed Habsburg encirclement. "Divide and rule" was the guiding principle.
George I/II/III were also Electors of Hanover. Britain intervened to protect Hanover and maintain the balance of power—funding Austria/Prussia against France (subsidies, naval support). No territorial ambitions in Germany proper.
Under Peter the Great, Elizabeth, and Catherine the Great, Russia entered German affairs as a great power—allying with Austria (Seven Years' War) or Prussia (briefly), influencing Polish and Baltic German territories. No direct German territorial claims, but decisive diplomatic/military weight.
By 1763, Austro-Prussian dualism defined German politics. The Empire weakened; nationalism stirred. The stage was set for 19th-century unification—under Prussia, not Austria.