The Duchy of Schleswig is a historical region located in northern Europe, primarily in what is now Denmark and Germany. It was part of the larger Duchy of Slesvig and has a rich history influenced by both Danish and German cultures. The duchy was often a point of contention between the two nations, especially during the 19th century. In 1864, the Second Schleswig War led to the duchy's annexation by Prussia and Austria. Following the war, the region was governed under different political arrangements until it was officially incorporated into Germany after the Franco-Prussian War in 1871. Today, the historical significance of the duchy remains a topic of interest in both Danish and German history.