‘Cabals and Intrigues’: British Intelligence Gathering in Europe During the Seven Years War

The purpose of this article is to analyse British diplomats’ methods for intelligence collection and conveyance relative to the war effort in west Germany during the Seven Years War, highlighting that British intelligence networks on the continent were both extensive and effective in procuring intelligence. This intelligence dealt with news on the motives and intentions of enemy courts, as well as the movements, numbers and preparations of enemy armies prior to a campaign. British diplomats utilised various methods such as correspondence and agents to acquire intelligence, with their networks being more effective than their enemies throughout the Seven Years War.