This section is from "The American Cyclopaedia", by George Ripley And Charles A. Dana. Also available from Amazon: The New American Cyclopędia. 16 volumes complete..
Frederick Charles Nicholas, prince of Prussia, a German general, born in Berlin, March 20, 1828. He is the only son of Prince Charles, elder brother of the emperor William. He studied at Bonn, where Von Roon, the future minister of war, was his intimate companion. He took part in the Schleswig-Holstein war of 1848, and acquired a high reputation by his thorough knowledge of military science. During the Franco-Italian war against Austria (1859) he applied himself particularly to the study of the organization of the French army. His Militarische Denkschrift was published in 1860 without his knowledge, showing how the Prussians could beat the French; and his comments elicited replies from French writers and attracted general attention in military circles. He greatly distinguished himself in the Schleswig-Holstein war of 1864; in the war against Austria in 1866; and most conspicuously as commander of the second army in the Franco-German war of 1870-'71, compelling the surrender of Metz, Oct. 27, for which he was made general field marshal.
His next victories were achieved over the army of the Loire, and he entered the city of Orleans Dec. 5, repeatedly defeated Gen. Chanzy, and captured Le Mans, Jan. 12. He is represented in the war songs of the period as an iron prince, a valiant soldier, a bold artillery officer, a gay sportsman, and a man whose word can be depended upon.
 
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