The Rise of Modern Germany
How did Germany develop as a modern imperialistic country?
What elements helped to spark Germany military culture and spirit? Prior to the 19th Century ◦ Loosely-allied states known as the German Confederation
Most powerful: ◦ Austria-Hungry ◦ Prussia
No central German state
What was Germany like prior to the 19th Century? The German Confederation was created after the Napoleonic Wars ◦ Post-1815
Was created by the Congress of Vienna ◦ A gathering of European powers who wanted to prevent future wars
How was the German Confederation created? The Congress of Vienna (September 1, 1814 – June 9, 1815) Coin Commemorating the Opening of the Congress of Vienna Undo everything Napoleon had done… ◦ Reduce French territory ◦ Restore as many former monarchs as possible
Create a new order in Europe ◦ Motto: “There is always an alternative to conflict”
What was the main objectives of the Congress of Vienna? The Congress established basic rules for Europe: ◦ Balance of Power ◦ Legitimacy of gov. ◦ Compensation
For France: ◦ 3-5 year occupation ◦ Pay a war bill of 7 million francs ($130 mill.) ◦ Loss of pre-Napoleon empire
What were the results of the Congress of Vienna? Europe in 1812 Europe After the Congress of Vienna The Germanic Confederation, 1815 Prussia was dominate in the Confederation for a number of reasons: Large population Strong military tradition Quick to industrialize
Prussia would also develop strong leadership King Wilhelm I Otto von Bismarck
What made Prussia one of the dominate German states? Otto von Bismarck The George Washington of Germany
1815-1898 ◦ Prime Minister of Prussia
“Politics of Reality” ◦ “Survival of the Fittest
“Blood and iron”
Who eventually will lead Prussia & German unification? Not to be confused with the really big boat… Great quotes from Otto von Bismarck “The less people know about how sausages and laws are made, the better they’ll sleep at night.”