Bismarck's choice of Madagascar Island had in fact been a move born of necessity. Since the Austrian Empire had begun its colonial ventures ahead of schedule, nations that saw the profits to be made had rushed to join this frenzy of partition.
Yet the Kingdom of Prussia's colonial foundations could practically be described as utterly destitute. It had no competitive edge whatsoever against the great powers, and not even much of an advantage over weaker nations.
If time had been turned back a few years, Prussia could have gone overseas and simply bought trading posts from other countries at low prices to obtain spheres of influence.
But now, if it wanted to buy trading posts and spheres of influence with money, at least with the funds in Bismarck's hands, that was simply impossible.
As for inland regions, so far no country other than the Austrian Empire had succeeded there, and Prussia could not afford the exorbitant costs either.
Even if it truly seized inland colonies, how would it maintain contact with the homeland? And how would it turn a profit?
Frederick William IV, however, no longer needed to worry about such matters, because the Austrian Empire had announced its plan for an expedition to Madagascar.
Prussia had lost one diplomat and more than three hundred colonial pioneers, so it was bound to get a share of the spoils in this operation.
To secure that right, Frederick William IV immediately dispatched troops to support the Austrian Empire's expedition.
The small states in Germany and Italy likewise declared their positions at once. The Spanish government had always wanted to make a grand splash and restore its former glory, so naturally it would not miss this opportunity.
Russia, Saint Petersburg.
Although Madagascar had absolutely nothing to do with Russia, Nicholas I was still