Povijesni prilozi, Vol. 22 No. 25, 2003.
Original scientific paper
Diplomacy of the Dubrovnik Republic immediately before its fall
Bernardica Pavlović
; Zagreb, Republika Hrvatska
Abstract
General expansion of France during late 18th century led to vast changes in Europe that also influenced Dubrovnik Republic. France offered its revolutionary ideas reinforced through territorial expansion. Such situation led small states to a difficult situation in which they could not remain independent. England initiated various coalitions against its arch enemy France. From 1797 to 1815 Adriatic also became a war territory. Control of its eastern coast was important for France in its attempt to separate the Europe from England. Such development of events led to the destruction of Dubrovnik’s independence. Its neutrality did not suit France nor its
enemies. English naval blockade of Europe completely destructed Dubrovnik’s merchant fleet and its economy. French representatives showed disrespect for Dubrovnik’s neutral policy and restraint toward French revolution. Dubrovnik could not count on strong armed forces so it always had an active diplomacy and good information gathering structure. This article presents Dubrovnik’s diplomatic activities immediately before it lost its independence.
Keywords
Hrčak ID:
28628
URI
Publication date:
15.12.2003.
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