Fortress Europe

European peace and security following Napoleon were underpinned by extensive fortification systems, particularly in France and Belgium. A key insight is the diminishing fear of French aggression by 1818, exemplified by King Willem I's refusal to fund Prussian fortifications in Luxembourg without significant repercussions. The study examines the economic and political challenges of maintaining these forts, highlighting corruption and escalating costs. Notably, the 'Wellington Barrier' in Belgium was dismantled in 1839 due to its prohibitive maintenance expenses and the Belgian army's inability to defend it alone, with exceptions like the National Redoubt in Antwerp. The research underscores the shift from militarization to industrialization and urban expansion as priorities.

(Ed.). (2020). Fortress Europe. Fighting Terror after Napoleon, 357–426. https://doi.org/10.1017/9781108895873.010