Nationalism: Unification of Germany How and why does Prussia lead German unification?
Nationalism Unifies Germany 1861: Rioters in Berlin force a liberal constitution for the Kingdom of Prussia Wilhelm I (Nationalist) becomes new King of Prussia Wilhelm appoints a junker (landowner) named Otto von Bismarck to become PM Bismarck’s goal is to expand Prussia’s territory & unite all the German states Bismarck was a master of “real politik” meaning politics of reality (tough/practical) Wilhelm I Bismarck runs Prussia w/o Parliament’s consent – rule by blood & iron Weak will be devoured by the strong! 1) 1864: Bismarck convinces Austria to join him in a war against Denmark Schleswig-Holstein Otto von Bismarck
Confederation of North German States 2) 1866: Prussia wants 22 Austrian controlled N. German states, attacks Austria starting Seven Weeks War Austria humiliated, Prussia gets Confed. of N. German States Confederation of North German States 3) 1867: France & Prussia go to war over control of So. German states 1866 1870: Prussia wins Franco-Prussian War, humiliationfor Napoleon III 4) 1871: Prussia unites the So. German States with rest of Prussia creating the Empire of Germany Wilhelm becomes Kaiser of the German Empire – Bismarck is Chancellor (Prime Minister)