Introduction

The Crimean War was the first modern war and a major European war, if not a proto-World War. Its modernity stemmed from its pioneering use of war reportage, almost daily news coverage, photographs and the telegraph, as well as from steamships, ironclad floating batteries, an unparalleled density of fire and trench warfare, among many other military innovations. Many characteristics of World War I were first illustrated during the Crimean War. The power of the media and public opinion was also prominent in this war. This was the first large-scale war where the Industrial Revolution's impact on the conduct and consequences of the war was clearly felt and observed. Blockade as an instrument of economic warfare was also a determinant factor. The outcome of the war was largely determined by the technological and industrial capacities (including means of transport) of the belligerent states. As the war drew towards a long war of attrition and economic blockade, with the possibility of Sweden and Austria joining the allies against Russia, Russian authorities came to understand that Russia could not continue the war. Thus, a war with the potential of becoming a full world war came to end by diplomatic efforts.