Unification of Germany (1871) - W Flashcards
What is the unification of Germany?
On the 18th of January 1871, several Germanic states in Central Europe came together to form one united country.
What was it like before Germany unified?
Had several small German states linked by culture and language.
Included:
Bavaria.
Hesse.
Saxony.
Prussia (the largest).
Why did they unify?
The Franco-Prussian War (1870-71) brought all of the Germanic states into an alliance against France.
What happened in the unification?
Prussian generals, army officers and tactics formed the basis of the new united German army.
Prussian ruler Wilhelm I become the first Kaiser and the Prussian government was adapted to rule all of Germany.
What was the aftermath of the unification?
Germany became a very militaristic state as Prussia was very well-known for their army.
By unifying, Germany had a lot more money and resources to grow a big empire.
What country was not allowed to be a part of the unification?
Austria.
Despite being a part of the Holy Roman Empire, Austria had to make their own empire.
