The Dano-Norwegian capture of Carlsten fortress in 1719 demonstrated how psychological warfare could overcome a defended stronghold during the Great Northern War.
Key Facts
- Siege start date
- July 10, 1719
- Siege end date
- July 16, 1719
- Duration
- 6 days days
- Fortress captured
- Carlsten fortress
- Swedish commander sentenced
- Colonel Henrich Danckwardt (death sentence)
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
During the closing phase of the Great Northern War, Dano-Norwegian forces launched an assault on northern Bohuslän. Naval forces under Peter Tordenskjold were directed against the Swedish town of Marstrand and the immobile vessels of the Swedish Gothenburg Fleet stationed in its harbor.
Between July 10 and July 16, 1719, Dano-Norwegian ships attacked Marstrand harbor and its fleet, then turned on Carlsten fortress. The garrison, subjected to psychological warfare, surrendered swiftly despite the fort being considered still defensible by Swedish authorities.
The successful siege delivered Carlsten fortress to Dano-Norwegian hands. Swedish commander Henrich Danckwardt was subsequently court-martialed and sentenced to death for his decision to surrender. The fall of the fortress became surrounded by myths and legends that persisted long after the event.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Peter Tordenskjold.
Side B
1 belligerent
Colonel Henrich Danckwardt.