Overview

The year 1634 marked a crucial turning point in the 30 Years War, a devastating conflict that ravaged Europe. In this year, significant events unfolded, reshaping the religious and political landscape and impacting the course of the war.

Events of 1634

The year 1634 witnessed important events that had a profound impact on the progression of the 30 Years War. Two noteworthy events are highlighted below.

Battle of Nördlingen

In September 1634, the Battle of Nördlingen was fought near the town of Nördlingen in southern Germany. The battle was a major confrontation between the Catholic League, led by Field Marshal Octavio Piccolomini, and the Protestant forces, commanded by General Gustav Horn and Duke Bernhard of Saxe-Weimar. The Catholic League achieved a decisive victory, causing significant losses to the Protestant forces and shifting the balance of power in favor of the Catholic side. The Battle of Nördlingen had far-reaching consequences and weakened the Protestant cause.

Assassination of Wallenstein's Murderers

In February 1634, the assassination of four conspirators involved in the murder of Generalissimo Albrecht von Wallenstein took place. After Wallenstein's execution in 1633, his assassins sought refuge in Eger (Cheb). However, fearing that their actions might lead to retaliation, local nobles decided to eliminate them. The assassination of Wallenstein's murderers added further intrigue to the ongoing power struggles and rivalries within the 30 Years War.