reasons for german unification bismarck
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Who was Bismarck?
Otto von Bismarck was a Prussian, born into a Junker family in 1815.
After the death of Frederick William IV, his
brother Wilhelm I appointed Bismarck
Minister President of Prussia.
Minister President
Bismarck’s first job was to stop a major crisis in Prussia, where King
Wilhelm was considering abdicating.
Bismarck also aimed to strengthen Prussia’s role
in Europe and in the Bund.
A new Prussian army
Bismarck succeeded in getting the support and funds to build a stronger
Prussian army.
In doing this he stopped the king from
abdicating, and showed his abilities.
Wars and crises
During his time as Minister President,
Bismarck was involved in various wars and
other crises.
These included Prussian Wars against Denmark,
Austria and France.
Bismarck was important
Many historians believe that Bismarck was the main reason unification occurred.
They believe that he engineered a series of
situations which improved Prussia’s position and made
unification inevitable.
Bismarck wasn’t important
Other historians believe Bismarck’s role has been
exaggerated.
They say he was an opportunist who simply responded to situations,
rather than creating them.
In this unit you will decide how important Bismarck was. Each possible reason for unification will be
examined, as well as considering Bismarck’s role in them all.