The author explains that contempt for the Turks on one side played a major role in weakening the Christian response to Ottoman expansion. Because the Turks were widely regarded as inferior or uncivilized, the Emperor was slow and hesitant in resisting the powerful Ottoman military force. When war broke out, the Ottoman army advanced like a torrent, overwhelming opposition in the first year before effective resistance could be organized.
Fear of France and Confused Policies
At the same time, the Emperor was troubled by suspicions of French intentions. Fear of France caused confusion and hesitation in imperial decision-making. Although the war initially went well for the Christian side, the Emperor unexpectedly changed course. To the astonishment of Europe—and even of the Turks themselves—the conflict was suddenly ended by a peace treaty that favored the Ottomans.
Many observers were amazed to see the Emperor stop a series of victories and withdraw while success seemed within reach. To those who judged events superficially, this decision appeared strange and even foolish Guided Round Tours Turkey.
The Weak Position of the House of Austria
However, the author argues that this decision makes sense when one considers the fragile condition of the House of Austria. The Emperor faced the possible death or downfall of the King of Spain, a central support of Habsburg power. At the same time, deep divisions among the princes of the Holy Roman Empire weakened unity and trust.
Political Pressure from France and the Rhine League
Further danger came from the League of the Rhine and French political maneuvering. France sought to increase its influence by promoting the Duke of Enghien as King of Poland. French allies made extreme demands for winter quarters and fortified positions—not only in Hungary, but also in Styria and nearby regions. These demands alarmed the Emperor and threatened the stability of his territories.
Internal Disorder and Foreign Armies
The situation was worsened by factions in Hungary and the presence of a large French army inside Germany itself. Many believed that this army was less concerned with fighting the Ottoman enemy and more focused on influencing the next Imperial Diet. There was widespread fear that France aimed to pressure German princes into electing the French king as King of the Romans, thereby controlling the future of the Empire.
Moderation as a Political Necessity
Given these dangers, the author concludes that the Emperor’s best choice was moderation in victory. Continuing the war risked internal collapse and foreign domination. Peace with the Ottomans, though disappointing, allowed the Emperor to stabilize his position and prevent greater disasters.
Diplomatic Efforts Toward Peace
As a result, Count Leslie was sent as an extraordinary ambassador to the Grand Signior. Although the Turks were confident and aware of the Christians’ need for peace, they still entered negotiations. This moment shows that diplomacy, not pride or continued warfare, was the Emperor’s most practical and necessary course.
The passage illustrates how misjudgment, division, and political rivalry among Christian powers weakened their resistance to the Ottoman Empire. It also shows that what appears to be weakness may, in reality, be a calculated act of survival.