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“The Unification of Germany”. I.) The German States in 1815. Congress of Vienna in 1815, 39 German States formed a loose grouping called the German Confederation 1. Two largest states: * Prussia (German ethncity ) * Austria-Hungary (Mixed ethnicity).
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I.) The German States in 1815 • Congress of Vienna in 1815, 39 German States formed a loose grouping called the German Confederation 1. Two largest states: * Prussia (German ethncity) * Austria-Hungary (Mixed ethnicity)
II.) Nationalism Movement Begins • Napoleon Bonaparte’s 7 year rule over German States inspired nationalism movement B. Industrialization of Prussia results in: 1. Junkers (conservative wealthy landowners) 2. Zollverein (trade union allowing free trade in German States) • Revolution of 1848 in Berlin • Result: liberal constitution
III.) Prussia Leads Unification • 1861 Wilhelm I becomes King of Prussia 1. reforms army (2x size) B. Otto van Bismarck named prime minister 1. believed the “state” should hold power; not the people 2. Master of Realpolitik 3. ignores constitution & rules without approval
IV.) Road to Unification • Goal: Expand empire to increase patriotism 1. The Danish War (1864): - Prussia/Austria vs. Denmark - gain two territories 2. Seven Weeks War (1866): - Prussia vs. Austria - Treaty of Prague: ends war; dissolves German Confederation; creates Northern German Confederation (Prussia leads) 3. Franco-Prussian War (1870): - Prussia vs. France - goal of war is to unite w/south - France surrenders to Prussia
V.) Germany Is United • German states meet on 1871 in “Hall of Mirrors”at Palace of Versailles B. New Government 1. declare the formation of the German Empire 2. Second Reich is a Limited Constitutional Monarchy 3. Wilhelm I declared Kaiser 4. Otto van Bismarck named “chancellor”
C. Legislative Branch: 1. Bundesrat: upper house w/58 members 2. Reichstag: lower house; w/ 400 members elected by universal manhood suffrage Outcome: - Reichstag has limited powers - Prussia influences power most
VI.) Early Years United • Bismarck leads massive industrialization in Germany • Wilhelm II becomes Kaiser in 1888 • Outcomes: • 1. Bismarck forced to resign • 2. Expands German influence around the world • 3. Germany will become military and industrial power B. Kulterkampf (anti-catholic programs) C. Socialism rises and gives way to social reforms