“The Unification of Germany”

I.) The German States in 1815

A. 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

A. 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)

C. Revolution of 1848 in BerlinResult: liberal constitution

A. 1861 Wilhelm I becomes King of Prussia1. reforms army (2x size)

III.) Prussia Leads Unification

B. Otto van Bismarck named prime minister1. believed the “state” should hold power; not the people2. Master of Realpolitik3. ignores constitution & rules without approval

IV.) Road to UnificationA. 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

A. 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

A. Bismarck leads massive industrialization in Germany

C. Socialism rises and gives way to social reforms

B. Kulterkampf (anti-catholic programs)

D. Wilhelm II becomes Kaiser in 1888Outcomes:1. Bismarck forced to resign2. Expands German influence around the world3. Germany will become military and industrial power