The
conflict between Prussia and Austria over Schleswig and Holstein triggered the
Austro-Prussian war of 1866. The traditionally pro-Austrian states of north and
central Germany sided against Prussia. Austria was beaten at Königgrätz, and its
allies, the King of Hanover, the Duke of Nassau, the Elector of Hesse-Cassel and
the free city of Frankfurt, lost their independence to Prussia. Prussia also
annexed both Duchies of Schleswig and Holstein, and annexed a small part of
Hesse-Rhine. Prussia was greatly enlarged and now the unrivalled master of
North-Germany. Austria was forced to cede Venice to Italy, and began a process
of "Ausgleich" with its Hungarian citizens. The German Confederation was
abolished.
Notice the autonomous
states within the Ottoman Empire. Now that Austria's ambitions towards Germany
were defeated. It would direct its attention there, inviting conflict with
Russia. More changes in the map of Europe
were imminent.
