Treaty of Campo Formio

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The Treaty of Campo Formio, signed on October 17, 1797, marked a pivotal moment in European history by ending the War of the First Coalition during the French Revolutionary Wars. It was negotiated between Napoleon Bonaparte for France and Count Ludwig von Cobenzl for Austria. The treaty followed Napoleon's successful Italian campaign and the preliminary Peace of Leoben. Key provisions included Austria ceding the Austrian Netherlands to France and recognizing the Cisalpine and Ligurian Republics as independent states. Venice was dissolved and partitioned, with parts going to Austria and others to France. The treaty had significant geopolitical implications. It led to Great Britain being the only nation still at war with France. Although it brought temporary peace, it set the stage for future conflicts, including the War of the Second Coalition. The treaty reshaped European borders, expanding French influence and establishing new republics. Despite its instability, it marked a major step in Napoleon's rise and contributed to the redrawing of Europe's map. The treaty was signed at Villa Manin, near Campoformido, symbolizing the end of the Venetian Republic and the beginning of a new European order.