Essay 4 – German Unification
Bismarck’s leadership was vital to the creation of a united Germany
by 1871. How accurate is that opinion?
Introduction:
German unification was a long process, 1800 no desire for it, by 1871 as a
result of multiple factors Germany unified. The reasons for this are a topic of
debate among historians. One school of thought is that of Williamson;
Bismarck alone did not unify Germany, but rather “he exploited powerful
forces which already existed” such as Austrian weakness and Prussian
military power. An opposing opinion is that of Hitler who believed Bismarck
played a central role in unification “Bismarck created the conditions which
rendered possible the creation of a Great Germany.” This school believes in the
importance of Bismarck’s foreign policy and Realpolitik in achieving unity.
The extent to which Bismarck’s leadership was vital will be examined here.
Main Body
Take notes on each of these points.Decide which side you support and
argue your case
Arguments For
 Bismarck’s foreign policy - Realpolitik/diplomacy in the three wars
against Denmark, Austria and France – exploited events to his
advantage.
 His isolation of Austria before the war.
 The issue of Schleswig Holstein and the war with Denmark.
 Treaty of Prague 1866.
 Hohenzollern candidature and the Ems telegram to provoke a war
with France – Bismarck manipulated these to Prussia’s advantage
that eventually brought about war with France and therefore
German unification.
 German nationalism laid the groundwork – Bismarck was able to
exploit it.
Arguments Against
o Bismarck was not a political genius as many like Hitler would like
to think, he got lucky.
o Growth of nationalism in Germany before Bismarck
o Prussia was powerful before Bismarck – economic strength,
railways, Zollverein.
o Austrian decline started before Bismarck came to power.
o If it wasn’t for the strength of the Prussian army, Prussia would
have lost the war with France and unification would possibly not
have been achieved in 1871.
o Bismarck’s aims not unification but Prussian expansion he
Prussianised Germany, he didn’t unify it.
Conclusion:
On your own. Remember – sum up key arguments for AND against.
Mention key analysis and evidence for both sides then reinforce your
own argument.
Remember, Remember Historiography !