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Book Cover for: The Franco-Prussian War 1870-71 Volume 1: The Campaign of Sedan. Helmuth Von Moltke and the Overthrow of the Second Empire, Quintin Barry

The Franco-Prussian War 1870-71 Volume 1: The Campaign of Sedan. Helmuth Von Moltke and the Overthrow of the Second Empire

Quintin Barry

In the first part of this comprehensive all-new two-volume military history of the Franco-Prussian War, Quintin Barry presents a detailed account of the war against the French Imperial Army waged by the armies of the German Confederation, directed by that supreme military mind, Helmuth von Moltke. The author places Moltke and his strategic planning in the context of the European balance of power following the ending of the Austria Prussian War of 1866, before exploring the initial mobilization and deployment of the armies in 1870.

All of the battles of this opening round of the war are described in detail, including Weissenburg, Worth, Spicheren, Borny-Colombey, Mars la Tour, Gravelotte, Beaumont and, of course, Sedan. The book ends as the Second Empire of Napoleon III lies defeated, crushed by the German armies directed by von Moltke. The author has made full use of an extensive number of German and French language sources. His detailed text is accompanied by a number of black and white illustrations and battle maps. Orders of battle are also provided.

Book Details

  • Publisher: Helion & Company
  • Publish Date: Nov 30th, 2025
  • Pages: 344
  • Language: English
  • Edition: Reprint - undefined
  • Dimensions: 0.00in - 0.00in - 0.00in - 0.00lb
  • EAN: 9781806721047
  • Categories: Modern - 19th CenturyEurope - General

About the Author

Barry, Quintin: - Quintin Barry was a retired solicitor and employment judge who had a distinguished career in both the public and private sectors, including roles within the NHS and local radio. A lifelong history enthusiast, he was the author of several well-regarded books on military and naval history. His notable works include a two-volume history of the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871, a history of the Austro-Prussian War of 1866, and the first modern account of the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878. Barry was particularly known for his in-depth study of the life and career of Helmuth von Moltke. His more recent publications focused on naval history, with titles such as Far Distant Ships: The Blockade of Brest 1793-1815, Crisis at the Chesapeake: The Royal Navy and the Struggle for America 1775-1783, and From Ushant to Gibraltar: The Channel Fleet 1778-1783. Barry's work remains highly regarded by historians and enthusiasts of military and naval affairs. Quintin passed away in January 2025.

Praise for this book

"...stands along side those of Howard and Wawro for anyone with a serious interest in the Franco- Prussian War, the two armies involved or the development of the twentieth centuries way of war"-- "The NYMAS Review, Autumn 2007"