Gulick

Congress of Vienna: Creation of a New Territorial Equilibrium

Introduction

• The war crisis was resolved but issues regarding Saxony still needed negotiation.

• Hardenberg maintained a strong claim for Prussia over all of Saxony.

• Metternich preferred only a small section of Saxony to be ceded to Prussia.

Bargaining Dynamics

• A mediator could create a compromise between the two extremes.

• Castlereagh, playing a crucial role, spent a busy month finding a resolution.

• Progress was made towards resolution of the Polish dispute, aiding his efforts.

• On January 3, 1815, the western boundary of Poland was to be agreed upon, which indicated progress in negotiations.

Compromise on Saxony

• The successful settlement of Poland weakened Hardenberg’s claims over Saxony due to Russian acceptance.

• By January 8, Castlereagh received support from the Tsar regarding a compromise over Saxony.

• Within weeks, a significant shift occurred; both parties were reconciled to the idea of compromise.

• The beginning of negotiations over Saxony gained momentum.

Impact of Geographic and Political Context

• Saxony's position made it a victim of larger prevailing geopolitical influences.

• The kingdom's loyalty switch from Napoleon to the Allies at a crucial time was recognized against its representatives at the Congress.

• The balance-of-power dynamics dictated the treatment of Saxony; its geography influenced its political fate in international negotiations.

Geography of Saxony

• Positioned in east-central Germany, bisected by the Elbe, with proximity to Prussian territories.

• Throughout history, Saxony's borders experienced fluctuations, with the strength of its medieval duchy diminishing by the early 19th century.

• The historical significance included a missed opportunity for Saxony to act as a leader in Germany, losing influence due to various political changes, including adopting Catholicism.

Economic Considerations

• Despite its fluctuating status, Saxony was one of Germany’s most fertile regions and possessed valuable urban centers.

• Leipzig and Dresden were key cities, making Saxony attractive to Prussian ambitions.

• The potential compromise sought to limit Prussia's control, avoiding the loss of Leipzig, which Metternich was determined to protect.

Final Negotiations and Outcomes

• By early February, concessions from Russia and Hanover aided negotiations with Prussia, delivering territorial adjustments.

• Prussia ultimately settled on a compromise granting it more than half of Saxony, excluding Leipzig, alongside additional Polish territories.

• The treaty formalized the transfer of rights and titles to Prussia following the negotiations.

Balance of Power Strategy

• Prussian and Austrian gains were framed within a broader context aimed at restraining potential French resurgence.

• The strategic aims of creating a solidified, balanced region against France were paramount to the decisions made.

• The negotiations reflect a systematic approach of reciprocity in territorial adjustments, visibly numerical and mathematical in nature.

Challenges of the Settlements

• While many concessions were made, obstacles remained, including disputes over central Italian territories and states.

• The complex interactions among the powers showcased the intricacy of negotiations which involved historical grievances and strategic interests.

• The final agreement was formalized into various treaties post-negotiation, resulting in a comprehensive treaty that addressed numerous points.

Summary of the Final Act

• The Final Act included 121 articles, outlining agreements on various issues related to the overall balance including Poland, Saxony, and Italy.

• The overall compensation strategy aimed to effectively contain France through a solid array of strengthened neighbor states—an approach acknowledged but not necessarily favored by many observers.

Long-term Implications

• The post-Congress of Vienna landscape highlighted the recurring unresolved tensions that could lead to future conflicts.

• Critics expressed skepticism regarding the longevity and effectiveness of peace based purely on power balance without deeper consolidation.

• Some concerns addressed included the potential strength of Russia, as the Congress's territorial arrangements opened pathways for them within Europe.