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The Ems Dispatch: How an Edited Telegram Sparked a War

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On July 13, 1870, a polite diplomatic telegram sent from a spa town in Prussia was quietly edited—then misinterpreted, mistranslated, and ignited one of the most consequential wars in European history. The Ems How an Edited Telegram Sparked a War tells the riveting true story of how a single paragraph, weaponized by cunning Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, plunged France and Prussia into a brutal war that redrew borders, collapsed empires, and laid the foundation for World War I.

With vivid narrative and dramatic insight, this short historical account brings to life the fateful meeting between King Wilhelm I and French ambassador Count Benedetti, the manipulation of their peaceful exchange, and the explosive consequences that followed. A must-read for history enthusiasts, this is a tale of politics, pride, and the astonishing power of words.

Perfect for fans of European history, diplomacy, and the human stories behind great conflicts, this concise yet impactful book reminds us how small actions can ripple across generations.

465 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 29, 2025

About the author

Bailey Matlock

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