The Franco-Prussian War took place from 19 July 1870 – 10 May 1871, and saw the Second French Empire of Napoleon III attempt to halt German plans for unification due to a fear of the shift in the European balance of power that would result if the Prussians succeeded. Despite the initial French declaration of war, the German coalition were able to mobilize quicker, in greater numbers and with better equipment. The French armies were defeated and in May 1871 the war ended with a German victory, cementing the new German union and ceding Alsace-Lorraine to German control. This would be a factor in the impending Great War.