Military source Flashcards
(18 cards)
Who was Heinrich Hartard von Rollingen?
A historical figure who documented the burning of Speyer in 1689
Heinrich Hartard von Rollingen lived until 1719 and provided a first-hand account of the events.
What event prompted the evacuation of Speyer?
The royal command from the French intendant of war, Monsieur la Fond
This command was issued on 23 May 1689.
What was the time frame given for the evacuation of Speyer?
Six days
Citizens were required to remove all their belongings and leave the town.
What items were citizens instructed to remove from Speyer?
- Wines
- Provisions
- Furniture
- Other effects
Citizens were also told to evacuate themselves.
What assurance was given to the citizens regarding the fate of the town?
The town would not be burned
This was stated to console the citizens despite the evacuation order.
Who were the officials that communicated the evacuation order?
The French intendant of war and the chief magistrates
The town scribe, Wegelaz, also played a role in translating the order.
What was the reaction of the clergy to the evacuation order?
They appealed for mercy but received no concessions
Their pleas were met with sympathy but ultimately ignored.
When did the burning of Speyer begin?
31 May 1689
The destruction started in the evening.
What weather conditions contributed to the spread of the fire?
A thunderstorm and strong winds
These conditions caused the fire to spread rapidly.
What significant structure was spared from the fire?
The cathedral
Initially, it was ordered not to be burned.
What happened to the bell tower of the cathedral during the fire?
It caught fire and was extinguished three times
This highlights the difficulty in controlling the fire.
What happened to the miracle-working figure of the Virgin?
It remained uninjured despite the fire
It was later moved to safety.
What did the deacon vom Weideberg find in the sacristy?
The receptacle for the body of Saint Guido was broken open, and the holy head was stolen
This indicates looting occurred after the fire.
What was the state of the cathedral after the fire?
The vaulting of the nave had collapsed, and it was full of rubbish
Many items stored in the cathedral were reduced to ashes.
Fill in the blank: The burning of Speyer was ordered by General _______.
Montclair
He announced the orders to set fire to the town.
True or False: The town of Speyer was burned due to the king’s grudge against it.
False
The order was not due to any grudge but to deprive enemies of resources.
What did citizens use to transport their goods during the evacuation?
One hundred carts
This was the means provided for them to remove their belongings.
What was the fate of the emperors’ tombs in the cathedral?
They were opened, and items were stolen
This included inscriptions and statues.
