History of Friedrich II of Prussia — Volume 03

"History of Friedrich II of Prussia — Volume 03" by Thomas Carlyle is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The book focuses on Friedrich I, the first Kurfürst (Elector) of Brandenburg, detailing his challenges and achievements as he attempted to restore order and governance in a turbulent Brandenburg during the early 15th century. It explores the socio-political dynamics of the time, particularly the conflicts between the emerging authority of the Elector and the entrenched power of the nobility. The opening portion of the work introduces Burggraf Friedrich as he arrives in Brandenburg, where he faces initial resistance from the local nobility who had grown accustomed to a lawless existence. Despite being received warmly by the townspeople eager for stability, the noble lords refuse to acknowledge his authority and continue their practices of plunder and feuding. Friedrich's patience is tested as he tries diplomatic approaches but eventually resorts to military action, employing heavy artillery named "Lazy Peg" in a decisive encounter against a rebellious noble, Quitzow. This sets the stage for Friedrich's transformation from a mere Statthalter to a significant figure in Brandenburg's history, paving the way for his future as Kurfürst and his ultimately successful governance. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Thomas Carlyle was a Scottish essayist, historian, and philosopher from the Scottish Lowlands. A leading writer of the Victorian era, he exerted a profound influence on 19th-century art, literature, and philosophy.