Introduction: the Franco-Prussian War in French and German history

This virtual special issue brings together a selection of articles from French History and German History to mark the 150th anniversary of the Franco-Prussian War of 1870–71. The articles centre upon some of the key themes that have driven historical research in recent years, including violence, the conduct of war, national and border identities, republicanism, liberalism and state-building. Moving beyond traditional military studies and the focus on the war itself, the articles reflect a growing scholarly interest in the wider political, social and cultural repercussions of the Franco-Prussian War.