What was Frederick William’s strategy for maintaining the balance of power in Europe?

Frederick William, the "Great Elector" of Brandenburg, pursued a strategic approach to the balance of power in Europe by actively avoiding a static policy of neutrality. Instead, he sought to advance the interests of his house by consistently aligning himself with the weaker power against the stronger party in any given conflict.1

This strategy necessitated frequent shifts in his alliances, a practice that became proverbially known in the 17th century as "Brandenburg’s intermittent fever". By remaining flexible, he aimed to prevent any single power from achieving total dominance in Europe.1

To support this diplomatic maneuvering, Frederick William recognized the necessity of military strength. He established a standing army, which allowed him to act as a significant player in European political and military combinations. His ability to effectively execute this balance-of-power strategy was further bolstered by his success in centralizing control over finances and taxation, which enabled him to maintain his military forces independently of the provincial estates.23