Charles XII

King Charles XII of Sweden is one of the most fascinating and enigmatic figures of early eighteenth-century European history. The war he fought, but eventually lost after a string of brilliant initial victories, was a significant turning point in European history.

For centuries, Charles XII has mainly been seen in the context of Sweden's national experience, yet his activities stretched across the European continent from Russia and Denmark to Germany, Austria, Poland, Ukraine, and the Ottoman Empire. Even the Dutch Republic, Britain, and France became involved diplomatically and economically.

In this volume, 20 scholars from 12 different countries contribute to creating a broader perspective on Charles XII and the Great Northern War in European history. The contributors to this volume expand the scope of international research on Charles XII and his time by examining not only his victories and defeats but the king's impact in other areas as well.

Full-colour illustrations throughout

About the Editors

John B. Hattendorf has been the Ernest J. King professor of maritime history at the U.S. Naval War College since 1984. In addition to his many contributions to maritime history, he has published a number of articles on early 18th century history.

Augustus J. Veenendal Jr., retired as Senior Research Historian at the Institue of Netherlands in The Hague. He is the author of a large number of books and articles on Dutch, American, and international railroad history.