reasons for the growth of nationalism cultural factors

Shared language

One of the main reasons for the

creation of the German Confederation was that

it united 25 million people who spoke the same language under

one organisation.

German writers

Many German writers and musicians began to

believe in the idea of a united Germany, rather than separate states.

They wrote stories and music which were widely

read and listened to across Germany.

Famous examples

Beethoven was a famous composer, well known for his emotional music that inspired many Germans.

The Brothers Grimm also told stories which

suggested Germans playing a heroic role.

Arguments for

Music and books were popular across the Bund, so they encouraged many people to think about a Greater Germany. This

helped inspire a belief in German greatness

amongst many people.

Arguments against

Many writers and musicians did not set out to promote

German nationalism, it was simply how their work was

interpreted.

Also, not everyone in Germany could read or had access to classical music.