Franz Joseph II vs Mahmud I

Franz Joseph II became Prince of Liechtenstein at age 32, succeeding his great-uncle Franz I. He inherited a small, impoverished principality facing pressure from Nazi Germany and the threat of absorption into the Greater German Reich.

Franz Joseph II kept Liechtenstein neutral throughout World War II, resisting pressure from Nazi Germany to join the Axis. He maintained diplomatic relations with both sides and protected the principality's sovereignty, though the country was economically dependent on Germany.

At the end of World War II, Franz Joseph II allowed approximately 500 Russian soldiers of the pro-German Russian Liberation Army to seek refuge in Liechtenstein. Despite Soviet demands for repatriation, he refused to extradite them, and most were eventually granted asylum in Argentina.

Franz Joseph II oversaw Liechtenstein's transformation from a poor agricultural state into a wealthy industrial and financial center. He attracted foreign investment, developed the manufacturing sector, and established low-tax policies that made the principality a tax haven.

Franz Joseph II signed the law granting women the right to vote in national elections, following a referendum that narrowly passed. Liechtenstein was one of the last European countries to introduce women's suffrage, a reform the prince had supported.

Mahmud I ordered the execution of Patrona Halil and his followers, ending the revolt that had overthrown Ahmed III. He restored order by executing the rebel leaders and placating the Janissaries, stabilizing the empire after the Tulip Era crisis.

Mahmud I's empire fought a war with Russia and Austria. The Ottoman army successfully defended Ochakov against Russian attacks in 1737, but the war ended with the Treaty of Ni

Mahmud I signed the Treaty of Belgrade with the Habsburgs, ending the Austro-Russian-Turkish War (1735-1739). The treaty returned Belgrade and northern Serbia to the Ottomans, a rare territorial gain in the 18th century.

Mahmud I attempted to reform the Janissary corps by introducing new training and equipment, including modern firearms. However, the reforms were limited due to Janissary resistance, and the corps remained a conservative force.

After the Treaty of Belgrade, Mahmud I's reign entered a period of peace. He focused on rebuilding the economy and infrastructure, repairing mosques and fortifications. This stability allowed the empire to recover from the Tulip Era's excesses.