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Online exhibition: The Duel for Europe 1800-1830
Online exhibition
You are viewing our "Duel for Europe" online exhibition. This exhibition highlights one of the most important periods in the history of the Foreign Office, when it helped to end the devastation of war and begin one of Europe's longest periods of peace. (tip:) Press the pause button
British Diplomacy in war and peace
Eighteenth-century Europe was ravaged by violence. A new system was desperately needed to bring peace and confidence.
Pistols at dawn
Foreign Secretary George Canning and War Secretary Castlereagh fought a duel on Putney Heath on 21 September 1809 arising from conflicts within the Cabinet.
Changing European politics
Castlereagh, who became Foreign Secretary in 1812, aimed to replace the 'old diplomacy' with consultation and peace keeping.
The duel for posterity
Castlereagh and Canning embodied radically different approaches to foreign policy. So who won the duel?
Acknowledgements
Acknowledgements for The Duel for Europe 1800-1830 exhibition