3. červenec 1866 – vítězství císařských zbraní u Hradce Králové

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Counterfactual history, i.e. the consideration of “what if” scenarios, is often viewed with distrust or downright dismissed as frivolous by historians. Nevertheless, views that there may be merit in considering alternative scenarios have been increasingly gaining ground. Indeed, counterfactual considerations allow for a better understanding of key moments in history and their impact on future developments. This paper discusses the Battle of Königgrätz on 3 July 1866. Historians interpret the Prusso-Austrian conflict as a pivotal point that steered Europe towards the events leading up to World War I. The paper investigates whether Austria’s victory at Königgrätz would have affected the European political map and power relations and would have shifted them in a different direction. Its conclusion, however, is that an Austrian victory would probably not ease tensions between the powers, but on the contrary could complicate the situation. The Habsburg monarchy would have had to face national tensions not only within the German Confederation but also within its own empire. Nationalism would continue to threaten stability in Europe. Prussia, which would probably have been waiting for a new opportunity after the defeat at Königgrätz, would likely have learned from the conflict and would have tried to assert its ambitions again. Another clash could therefore occur before 1900. In the event of an Austrian victory, European history might have evolved in familiar patterns, but with different actors and dynamics. Going back to counterfactual history, considering such scenarios helps us to better understand the complexity of historical events and their possible impact on the future.