Prussian power

Although Austria was the most politically powerful state in the Bund, Prussia was very important too.

Prussia controlled the Zollverein and was a

major military power too.

A Prussian threat?

Prussia was seen as a threat by many of the

smaller German states, especially in the south.

Many small states worried that a united Germany would be dominated by

Prussia.

Main obstacle? Yes

Austria was both jealous of and angry about Prussia’s economic

strength.

The decision to exclude Austria from the

Zollverein angered them and made them unlikely to

work with Prussia.

Main obstacle? Yes

Smaller German states tended to side with

Austria during discussions at the Bund.

Also, the north/south religious differences

caused further resentment towards

Prussia.

Main obstacle? No

France continued to be a worry for many Germans.

Prussia was the main obstacle to them taking control of land near the

Rhine.

Many German states relied on Prussia for

protection.

Main obstacle? No

Austria tried to end the Zollverein and replace it with their own customs

union.

However other German states rejected this,

believing they had too much to lose, showing some

Prussian support.