Inter-European Relations (1848-1878)

• Between 1848 and 1878, the Crimean War and the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878 interrupted the peace amongst European powers

• Russia and the Ottomans were the main adversaries, but other nations like Britain and Germany become involved for political and territorial reasons.

The Crimean War

The Crimean War• war erupts between Russia and Ottoman Empire when

Russia attempts to extend its influence into Ottoman territory– Russia claimed to be the protector of Christians in the Balkan

peninsula under control of the Ottomans• France and Britain join the Ottomans, to Russia’s surprise

and displeasure, the Austrians and Prussians remain neutral– Britain and France wanted to prevent Russia expansion into the

Mediterranean for commercial interests• poorly equipped and commanded troops lead to massive

suffering on both sides• helped by French and British forces, the Ottomans defeat

the Russians

Results of War Treaty of Paris (1856)

Russia gives up land around Danube River and Black Sea Russia renounces its claims to protect Orthodox

Christians in Ottoman Empire image of invincible Russia crushed Concert of Europe dissolved

Agendas for the Crimean War• Britishsought to limit Russian influence in

the Balkans; counteract French interest in the Middle East; protect British interests in Africa and Asia

• Russiawanted to expand influence into the Balkans; maintain access to the Mediterranean; remain protector of the Slavs

• Francewanted to establish colonies in E. Africa and Middle East

• Ottoman Empirebecoming weak; internal call for reform politically and socially; maintain control of Middle East and E. Mediterranean

Florence Nightingale

• Began providing on-site medical treatment to wounded soliders

• Plead to British gov’t for greater medical supplies

• Hospital built in Balkans to aid wounded soldiers

• Death rate: 42% to 2%