Absolutism in Prussia The dark blue is the area that will expand into Prussia. It was composed of most of the northern German states and the former country of Poland

Historical Background of Region Prior to the Thirty Years’ War (1618—1648), the central part of Europe was broken into the German states – Nearly 300 independent political units existed The Holy Roman Empire consisted of many German states, but by the end of the Thirty Years’ War the power of the HRE began to fade

Brandenburg—Prussia in 1648 Combination of two states: Brandenburg and Prussia Brandenburg although central in location was still insignificant in HRE dealings Through marriage in the 1600s, the house of Hohenzollern began to win separate parts of the empire

An Unlikely Power At the end of the Thirty Years’ War, there was no sign that Prussia would become a great power Reasons – Each province had separate gov’t and culture – Not economically productive and poor soil – Sparse population – No access to sea or viable trade route

Frederick William (r. 1640—1688) Known as the “Great Elector” Established Prussia as a great power – Will start of process of German unification  19 th century Beginning of the dynasty of Hohenzollerns Defender of Calvinism  joined against Louis XIV’s war against Protestantism

Reforms of Frederick William Although Calvinist, he granted toleration to Catholics and Jews Encouraged industry and trade and utilized foreign craftsmen and Dutch farmers to transform Prussian industry and agriculture Established locally-run gov’t in provinces, but were all answerable to central gov’t in Berlin

Innovations Built the strongest army in Europe Used heavy taxes, but nobility were not exempt like in France – Junkers, landed nobility, agreed to taxes in return for rights to tax their serfs Constructed the Frederick William Canal through Berlin to increase trade traffic – Overseas trade did not become significant until the 19 th century

Frederick I (r. 1688—1713) Son of the Great Elector Built great palaces in Berlin and Charlottenburg Philosophical and religious discussions were common in the palaces

An Element of Enlightenment Founded the University of Halle in 1692 Immigrant scholars and craftsmen were welcomed to Prussia Persuaded by the Enlightenment to open an academy of science HOWEVER: spent most of his reign at war against France and Spain – Defined the military tradition of Prussia

Frederick William I (r. 1713—1740) Son of Frederick I Increased Prussian army from 45,000 to 80,000 – Fourth largest in Europe Military expenditures made up 80% of Prussian state revenues – 60% in France and 50% in Austria Leave his successor a surplus of revenue

Legacy of Frederick William I Built strongest army, but never went to war Maintained close relationship with England and Holland through family relations Most efficient and incorruptible bureaucracy in Europe Merit promotions rewarded efficiency and diligence Culture based on absolute obedience and discipline Highly valued education for all classes

Frederick the Great (Frederick II) (r ) Son of Frederick William I Taught obedience as a child Education as a boy was from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Learned the fifty-four movements of the Prussian army drill before he was five

Enlightened Despot Inherited a prosperous economy, a full treasury, and the best army in Europe Called himself “the first servant of the state” Believed the ruler served the interests of the state (people) Pondered questions of religion, morality, and power

Prussia at War Frederick the Great ordered an attack on Silesia, part of Poland, in October 1740 For 23 years, France, Austria, and Russia will align against Prussia to stop their expansion Although 15 times outnumbered, Prussia emerged with enlarged territories and a doubled population “ruin of the Fatherland”  although devastated, Prussia emerged as a great power

Legacy: Frederick Spent years after war rebuilding through gov’t funds: towns, villages, farms New factories were built to support the economy Reformed judicial system for more equality Eliminated torture Improved education Promotion through merit – work and education rather than birth Gained parts of Poland from 1772 to 1795