The Balance of Power 1715–1789 by Arthur Hassall, published in 1896 by Rivington, Percival & Co., is a meticulous study of European diplomacy, politics, and international relations during a pivotal period between the early eighteenth century and the eve of the French Revolution. Hassall, a noted historian, examines the complex interplay of monarchies, alliances, and treaties that defined the balance of power system in Europe, offering readers a detailed account of the strategies and rivalries that shaped the continent’s political landscape.
In The Balance of Power 1715–1789, Hassall explores the aftermath of the War of the Spanish Succession, the rise of Prussia, the shifting fortunes of Austria, France, and Britain, and the diplomatic maneuvers that sought to prevent any one power from dominating Europe. The book delves into key treaties, conflicts, and the personalities of influential statesmen, providing a comprehensive narrative of European international politics. Hassall combines analytical insight with narrative clarity, helping readers understand the causes, consequences, and interconnections of the major events that maintained or disrupted the balance of power during this era.
This 1896 Rivington, Percival & Co. edition of The Balance of Power 1715–1789 remains an important work for historians, students, and enthusiasts of European history. Its careful scholarship and detailed treatment of eighteenth-century diplomacy make it an enduring resource for anyone seeking to understand the mechanisms and challenges of international relations in a formative period of modern Europe.
