Germany
1848-1914
Conflict-What they wanted
German unification was the most important political development in Europe between 1848 and 1914.
During this time period, Germany was improving their economy, industry, and military to challenge Great Britain for the title of being a world power.
Germany’s unification was masterminded by the conservative prime minister of Prussia, who wanted to outflank Prussian liberals and prevent a more radical version of a unified Germany from being imposed by revolution from below. The prime minister was aided by the army and the monarchy
Important Leaders
-Frederick William the IV
Military Conflict
Germany had three wars during this time period. The Danish War (1864), The Austro-Prussian War (1866), and the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871).
The Danish War (1864) - The duchies of Schleswig and Holstein had been ruled separately by Danish kings since the 15th century. The war was fought for control of the duchies of Holstein and Lauenburg due to the succession disputes concerning them when the Danish king died without an heir acceptable to the German Confederation. These territories also had German speakers, so Germany wanted them to join the Confederation.
Austro-Prussian War (1866) - A war caused due to the growing power of Prussia and it’s desire to expand into the smaller German states under Austrian influence. Germany would use its allies in Germany and Italy to fight and break Austrian influence in the German States. This war would result in a decisive Prussian victory and would aid Prussia’s ambitions to unite Germany under their banner. Austrian influence would mostly disappear from the area and leave Prussia almost unchallenged in uniting the German states.
Franco-Prussian war (1870) - A war in direct opposition to Prussian expansion and German unification which would threaten the stability and status quo that has been in Europe since the fall of Napoleon. Germany would decimate France capturing nearly half a million french troops, lay siege to Paris, and capture of Napoleon III. This war would lead to the fall of the French Empire and formation of the Third Republic. While in Germany this would lead to the formation of the German Empire. The balance of power in Europe would shift dramatically and stability would be tested as the world went towards a new century.
Resolution
Personal Annotation
MC Questions
A. Economy
B. Industry
C. Military
D. All of the Above
2. Who was the minister president of Prussia?
A. Henry VIII
B. Otto Van Bismark
C. Frederick William IV
D. King Wilhelm I
3. How many wars were they in?
A. 1
B. 6
C. 10
D. 3