Clash of the two Swedish Kings

Available in English for the first time, this book presents an in-depth study of the opening battle of the Polish-Swedish War of 1626–1629, fought in Prussia. Drawing extensively on contemporary sources, many written by eyewitnesses to the campaign, and supported by secondary sources from both Poland and Sweden, it provides a detailed account of the battle and its wider context.

The book is another addition to the growing body of modern works examining the Polish-Swedish conflicts of the seventeenth century, covering a subject that has previously received little detailed attention in English. As such, it will appeal to professional historians and military history enthusiasts alike.

At Gniew (Mewe), King Sigismund III faced his Swedish cousin, Gustav II Adolf. The confrontation was portrayed as a clash between the rightful ruler of Sweden and the usurper of the throne in Stockholm and was consequently exploited for court propaganda by both sides.

The book describes the siege of Swedish-held Gniew by the Polish army under Sigismund III and the subsequent relief operation commanded by Gustav II Adolf. This resulted in three distinct engagements fought between 22 September and 1 October 1626. Although relatively small-scale affairs, these battles provide a fascinating example of the clash between ‘Western’ and ‘Eastern’ styles of warfare.

Readers will also find an examination of the Swedish and Polish military systems of the 1620s, together with a reconstruction of the organisation and strength of the armies involved in the campaign. The author presents differing interpretations of the battle and examines events from the perspectives of both warring sides.