The interpretation places substantial weight on French strategic mistakes and underestimation of Prussian logistical movement in the Franco-Prussian War. Prussian study of the American Civil War is offered as part of that explanation. French soldiers are described as trained, reasonably paid and motivated, with generally effective supply. A substantial armaments industry also supported France's ability to equip forces. Defeat in 1870 therefore does not establish that France lacked usable military power during the Mexican intervention.
Notable Point · 31:14-32:30
French military capability beyond the defeat of 1870
Strategic errors and Prussian mobility are used to explain defeat without dismissing French soldiers or industrial capacity.