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Section Two: German Unification Introduction: mid-1800s Germany independent states I. Factors which encouraged unification A. a common language and culture B. German confederation C. In 1834, the Zollverein or customs union removed tariffs on trade between the German states II. Revolution in Prussia A. In 1848 revolt in Prussia, King Frederick Wilhelm IV promised constitutional reforms; he went back on his promises; banned groups that supported democracy III. Bismarck’s Plan for Germany A. 1862 Wilhelm I, King of Prussia; chose OttoVon Bismarck as prime minister B. Bismarck opposed democracy; Prussia would lead German unification 1. believed in realpolitik, government should do what is practical rather than idealistic C. Bismarck said German unity would not be won by vote, but by “blood and iron” 1. he built Army in defiance of parliament which he dismissed. Determined to unify by war D. The disagreement over Schleswig and Holstein gave Prussia a reason to start a war with Denmark. Prussia won territory E. The Austro-Prussian War: Prussia won; treaty united the northern German states F. The Franco Prussian War: Prussia won; Treaty established a German Empire; Wilhelm I, first Kaiser, or emperor; Bismarck 1st chancellor
G. Government took a federal form (power is shared between state and national) 1. voting rights given, but government restrictions made system undemocratic a. Political parties developed in opposition H. The Kulturkampf or “struggle for culture” Bismarck’s effort to limit the power of the Catholic Church I. Bismarck tried to destroy Socialism, passed some reforms to keep socialist from getting too strong J. 1888 Wilhelm II came to the throne and dismissed Bismarck as prime minister |