“ His success in founding and organizing the army of Brandenburg-Prussia was amply demonstrated by the great victory which he gained over the Swedes at Fehrbellin in June 1675, and by the eagerness with which foreign powers sought his support. He was also the founder of the Prussian navy. The elector assisted trade in every possible way. He made the canal which still bears his name between the Oder and the Spree; established a trading company; and founded colonies on the west coast of Africa. ”

“ He encouraged Flemings to settle in Brandenburg, and both before and after the revocation of the edict of Nantes in 1685 welcomed large numbers of Huguenots, who added greatly to the welfare of the country. Education was not neglected; and if in this direction some of his plans were abortive, it was from lack of means and opportunity rather than effort and inclination. It is difficult to overestimate the services of the great elector to Brandenburg and Prussia. ”

“ J. G. Droysen, Geschichte der preussischen Politik (Berlin, 1855–1886) ; M. Philippson, Der grosse Kurfürst (Berlin, 1897–1903) ; E. Heyck, Der grosse Kurfürst (Bielefeld, 1902) ; Spahn, Der grosse Kurfürst (Mainz, 1902) ”