German Unification and Meiji Restoration Compares and contrasts German unification with Meiji Restoration (e.g., nationalism, militarism, modernization, industrialization).
Imperial Germany Led by Otto von Bismarck - Prime Minister of Prussia Feared socialism Fought 3 wars United many small nations into one unified Germany Created the 2nd Reich Head of new Germany - called kaiser (emperor) and "Iron Chancellor" of Germany
Same Government had a constitution and legislature Both headed by "emperor" Built a powerful military: both army and navy (citizens required to serve) Nationalism: Citizens supported their country and had great pride in it Modernized country: transportation, communication, and banking systems; education, voting rights Industrialized: built strong businesses, became urban locations
Meiji Japan Led by powerful emperor, banned traditional samurai Sent ambassadors around the world to learn Western culture Adopted western culture so they could "expel the barbarians" from their land Feared Westerners would take over Japan Believed their mission was to free Asian nations from western imperialism Wanted an overseas empire