The Unification of Germany (AQA GCSE History)

How did Germany become a country? - Summary

Germany has not been a unified nation for as long as England. Until 1871, the geographical area of modern-day Germany was 25 independent states. The most powerful of these states was Prussia, and Otto von Bismarck was its prime minister. Otto von Bismarck wanted to unite these states into one strong German nation under Prussian leadership. To achieve this, he led Prussia into three important wars with Denmark, Austria, and France. By winning these wars, Bismarck was able to bring the German states together, creating a sense of unity and pride among the German people.

In 1871, after defeating France in the Franco-Prussian War, the leaders of the German states agreed to unite and form the German Empire. Wilhelm II, the King of Prussia, was crowned the first German Emperor, or Kaiser. This unification was significant because it made Germany a powerful nation which changed the balance of power across Europe.

What was Germany like before unification?

• Before 1871, there were 25 independent German states

• Each of the German states had their own:

  • laws

  • leaders

  • customs

• The most powerful German state was Prussia

  • Prussia had a strong leader, under Kaiser Wilhelm II

  • Prussia's military was very large and experienced

Why was Germany unified in 1871?

• In 1871, the German states united into one country. This occurred because:

  • Some German states feared an invasion from France or Russia

    • A unified country, with the military power of Prussia, would deter France and Russia from invading

  • Prussia had won the Franco-Prussian War in 1871

    • Prussia's territory had expanded to include French territory such as Alsace-Lorraine

    • Prussia's power significantly increased, persuading more German states to unite with Prussia

• Not all of the German states agreed to unification

  • Austria chose not to unite with the other German states

    • They continued to be allies with the united Germany

Impact of the unification of Germany

• The unification of Germany had positive impacts on Germany:

  • the combined workers of the German states allowed Germany to rapidly industrialise

  • the strength of Prussia's military made Germany a powerful nation in Europe

  • Germany now had one strong leader in the Kaiser, who had a clear vision for how Germany should be

• However, the unification caused issues with other European nations:

  • France was very angry with the unified Germany due to the Franco-Prussian War

    • They were willing to fight Germany to get revenge and Alsace-Lorraine back

  • Britain was frightened of the potential power that the unified Germany had