ISSUE 4 Reasons for German Unification OVERVIEW Overview

ISSUE 4 Reasons for German Unification

OVERVIEW

Overview GERMANY NOT UNITED UNTIL 1871. HOW? ? ? Familiar factors Economic, cultural, military weakness if alone etc. New factors Prussia gaining even more power. Austria weakening. Bismarck. how? 3 wars. War 1 Vs Denmark show Prussia as Germany’s protector. War 2 Vs Austria get rid of her War 3 Vs France unite north and southern states using common enemy (French) Historiography was Bismarck the main reason? Did he plan it in advance or was he an opportunist?

Key Characters • Key men in power • 1861 King William 1 of Prussia • 1859 von Roon, Prussian Minister of War • von Moltke, Chief of Prussian General Staff • 1862 Bismarck Minister President and Foreign Minister.

Issue 4 An evaluation of the reasons for Unification up to 1871: What this includes: • Cultural Factors. • Prussian economic strength • Prussian military strength • The role of Bismarck • The attitude of the states • Actions of Napoleon III • Decline of Austria Homework/sup read intro on p. 107

cultural

REVISION! MINDMAP ALL YOU REMEMBER ABOUT CULTURAL FACTORS. Remember to include quotes/facts/positives and negatives (extra info Mc. Kichan p. 26)

Cultural factors Burchenshaften Romantic movement Beethoven, Grimm, 25 mill language “fatherland” quote. “multitude of invisible bonds” Still religious divides Only educated people. Wasn’t enough to unite Germany.

The Continued Growth of Nationalism 1. The Nationalverein 1859 1867 Was a group of Prussian liberals and nationalists Aims agitated for a national federation of German states under the leadership of Prussia 2. The National Liberals = Prussian political party established due to the Nationalverein ADD THIS TO THE NOTES YOU ALREADY HAVE

Paragraph Cultural factors were of limited importance in the unification of Germany. They did help Germany unite as……. . (&examples) However they were less important because……

Prussian economic strength HOMEWORK/SUPP READ BOOK P. 109

Prussian Growth Prussia grew in power for a variety of reasons between 1815 and 1860, which meant that the Prussian state would eventually be the leading power in unifying the German nation under Prussian domination. It is important to remember that Prussia developed as Austria declined and the combination of the two processes was what led to the creation of a German nation state or Kleindeutschland which excluded Austria.

Growing Prussian Economic Strength Growing Prussian economic strength was a major reason behind German unification. It could be argued that the Prussian economy was the ‘engine’ – i. e. the strength and driving force behind unification. The economic dominance of Prussia led to military dominance, which in time would lead to political dominance.

The growth of Prussian Industry By the 1850 s Prussia was leading the economic development of the German states. By then, the German states produced 14 million tonnes of coal, compared to Austria’s 2 million tonnes. Over twice as much pig iron was produced in the German states than in Austria and the German states had over 5, 800 km of railways, compared to 1, 500 km in Austria. This was to have major implications for German unification in the 1860 s. The Prussians were able to mobilise their troops very quickly at the start of the Austro Prussian War in 1866. In 1870, when the Franco Prussian War broke out, the Prussians were able to mobilise quickly and invade France, as they had four railway lines to the front, compared with France’s one.

The Rhineland became part of Prussia in 1815, after the defeat of Napoleon. The discovery of raw materials (mostly coal and iron) in the Rhineland the Saarland was exploited by Prussia. The problem of how to transport raw materials from the Rhineland to the factories of Berlin and the rest of Prussia led directly to the formation of the Zollverein. The acquisition of the Rhineland by Prussia (after 1815 Confederation agreement) was important to Prussia because: Rhineland has main mineral deposits of coal, iron ore, lead, oil Is major transport/trade link to North Sea

The Zollverein There is some debate about whether the Zollverein was a political union or purely an economic one, but there is no doubt that it strengthened the links between Prussia and the rest of the German states. The Zollverein contributed to the growth of Prussian railways, which transported people, as well as raw materials from state to state, tightening the bonds between the German states and, arguably, making unification more likely. The Zollverein expanded in the 1850 s to include all but four (including Austria) of the German states by 1854. 1850 s to 60 s Zollverein continued to be important to Prussia because: 1. the economic dominance of Prussia led to military dominance, which in time would lead to political dominance. 2. the Zollverein encouraged an anti Austrian tradition among the Prussians so they would try to make sure any German nation would be led by Prussia without Austria.

Reasons for Prussian Growth SUMMARY Population growth-more citizens to work in factories, become soldiers, etc. Industrial growth Prussian factories produced vast quantities of munitions and other manufactured goods to sell both at home and abroad. Prussia became a leading power in the development of certain chemical products eg dyestuffs and weapons. Massive quantities of coal, iron and steel were produced. Economic growth – productive factories and farmland meant a healthy economy to finance further expansion of trade, industry and the army. The Zollverein, in particular, was Prussian –led and Prussian trade expanded hugely as trade barriers between states collapsed. Territorial growth – the Treaty of Vienna (1815) enlarged Prussian territory, giving greater areas of farm land, coalfields, etc. Prussia led the way in developing a huge and efficient railway network, allowing fast access for goods, raw materials and soldiers across the state, to its own borders and beyond. Prussia made excellent use of the telegraph after its invention, vastly improving national and international communication. Prussia invested hugely in developing its military strength.

Growing Prussian Economic Strength Population (million) Prussia Germany (Zollverein) Austria 1840 1870 14. 9 19. 4 Key Outputs in 1870 Railways by 1860 Coal Pig Iron Steel 0. 5 mill tons 0. 13 mill tons 0. 02 mill 4543 km tons 32. 6 40. 8 23. 3 mill tons 30 34. 8 6. 3 mill tons 11, 084 km

Good Quotes: By the 1850 s, the Prussian economy had outstripped that of Austria. ‘This would have far reaching POLITICAL, MILITARY and ECONOMIC consequences for both powers’ – Mc. Gonigle. Bismarck believed that it would be ‘iron and blood’ which united the German states. J. M. Keynes argues that unification was due more to ‘coal and iron’. JM Keynes (economist in 1920 s) with hindsight believed the economy had more influence on unification than Bismarck ARGUMENT WITHOUT ECONOMIC SUPERIORITY PRUSSIA COULD NOT HAVE AFFORDED ITS ARMY, SO BISMARK/WARS OF UNIFICAITON ETC WOULD NOT HAVE HAPPENED! Kerr&Mc. Gonigle “an age where industrial strength was becoming increasingly important in politics”

SQA Prussian economic strength • Growth in Prussian economic power – development of railways, transport links, roads, for example; importance of the Rhineland the Saarland to Prussian economic development. Able to finance and equip Prussian army. Also able to mobilise Prussian army at speed. • The Zollverein – the Prussian dominated free trade area; the significance to German political unification – the ‘mighty lever of German unification

paragraph The economic strength of Prussia was very important in the unification of Germany. It was important because…. EXPLAIN AND GIVE EVIDENCE without this Germany would not be able to supplant Austria or to command a large army which was important in the wars of unification. However Unification also relied on the decline of Austria as without this Prussia would still face a major obstacle to unification.

Attitude of the other States

Other countries Didn’t want Germany to unite. BUT France fell out with Austria Britain too busy with her own Empire ie India, Russia fell out with Austria over Crimean War

Attitude of other states sqa The attitude of other states • Foreign concerns over the idea of a united Germany. None of the Great Powers wanted to see the creation of a strong Germany which might upset the balance of power. Britain, Russia, Austria and France were all happy to see the German states weak and divided. • Attitudes changed after 1850: Britain was increasingly pre occupied with her Empire, particularly India (mutiny, 1857).

The Decline of Austria

The Decline of Austria and the Favourable International Situation after the 1850 s Decline of Austrian political power due to: Schwarzenburg died in 1852. He was widely respected in Europe as an able statesman, his early death has generally been seen by historians as a grave setback to Austria, as none of his successors possessed his stature or skill. Austria failed to support Russia in Crimean war so loses a valuable ally Decline in Austria’s international power due to: 1859 Austria defeated in war against Italians who had French help. (Second Italian war of independence) so relationships with France and Russia were poor. Austrian economy was slow to industrialise relative to Prussia, GB, France so Austria’s international status as a major power declined.

Reasons for Austrian Decline Birth rate relatively slower than Prussia’s. Economy largely agricultural, and most of population was involved in rural farming rather than urban industrial development. Austria didn’t join the Zollverein, so trade between the German states wasn’t so profitable for her because of restrictive taxes and customs barriers. Austria didn’t experience an “industrial revolution” anything like as big as Prussia’s.

Austrian decline, cont. Growth of nationalism weakened the A H empire as subject peoples within it eg the Hungarians and Poles became restless and rebellious. Austria’s army depended on soldiers from its empire, many of whom were ill equipped, discontented conscripts. Austria’s relationships with other countries esp. Russia and France were poor, so she could not rely on having allies in any future conflict.

Decline of Austria Economic Weakness: In 1852 Austria suggested a new Customs Union to rival the Zollverein but Austria had few resources and had not yet experienced an industrial revolution. Its main river the Danube flowed to the Black sea, away from the industrial power houses of Western Europe. Because of these problems the plans collapsed. International Isolation: Austria lost Russia as an ally when it refused to support Russia in the Crimean war. Military Weakness: Austria went to war with France and the Italian states in 1859. It was described as “weak and disorganised” and the army “lurching from disaster to disaster”. The Austrian army was exposed as out of date and weak.

Decline of Austria Answer these questions IN FULL SENTENCES Read p. 108(blue) p. 32/33(gold) 1. Why was the “Holy Alliance [between Austria and Russia] shattered for good”. Read p. 108(blue) p. 34/35(gold) 2. Why did Manteuffel pass reforms to help factory workers? 3. Was Manteuffel a nationalist? 4. Where in Prussia were new raw materials found? Read p. 110(blue) p. 35/36(bottom and top GOLD) 5. Why did Prussian industrial production and foreign trade increase?

Signs of Austria’s Decline Austria’s exclusion from Zollverein led to economic stagnation Lack of rail network Lagging behind in production of coal and iron Inefficient military in comparison to Prussia’s Loss of Russian ally through refusal of support in Crimean War Losing the fight against nationalism – Nationalverein set up to investigate possibility of a united Germany Loss of leadership of the Bund after 1866 defeat Loss of the Southern states as allies after 1866 defeat Overall, by 1866, Austria was no match for Prussia and had declined both economically and politically.

sqa The decline of Austria • The decline in Austrian power and influence – economically and militarily – during the 1850 s particularly. • Distraction to Austria of commitments in Italy.

Prussian Military Strength

Military Austria Prussia France 1850 434, 000 131, 000 439, 000 1866 275, 000 214, 000 458, 000 1870 252, 000 319, 000 452, 000 1850 1, 579 5, 856 2, 915 1870 9, 589 18, 876 15, 544 Military Railways (km) Note: 1866 Prussia’s ally, Italy had an army of 233, 000

How the military grew Otto von Bismarck (born 1815 died 1898) was a Prussian German statesman and aristocrat. • King Wilhelm 1 appoints him as Minister President of Prussia because he promised to help Wilhelm reorganize the Prussian army whatever the Prussian Lantag (government) wanted. Bismarck resolved the constitutional crisis by collecting the taxes needed for the modernisation of the Prussian army without the Lantag’s approval. • This was illegal and very risky. He got away with it.

Plan to expand modernise Prussian army. Budget for this refused by liberal dominated Landtag. Army training 2 3 years full time for all men. 3 4 years training in reserves Landwehr (part time soldiers) to be abolished 49 more regiments 9 million thalers (£ 1. 5 mill) per year to pay for changes New weapons to be introduced Army strength increased from 230, 000 to 450, 000.

What you need to write about in this factor… The reforms THEN Explain the success of the army in each of the three Wars of Unification – give EXAMPLES – defeat of the Danish in 9 months, defeat of the Austrians in 7 weeks, battle of Konnigratz, quick mobilisation and invasion of France in 1870, forcing France to fight a defensive war, Battles of Metz and Sedan, siege of Paris. (we will look at these soon!)

SQA Prussian military strength • Significance of military reforms– creation of modern powerful army which Bismarck used. • Role of Prussian army in defeating Denmark. – (defeat of the Danish in 9 months) • Role of Prussian army in defeating Austria: contemporaries expected a long war, but it was over in seven weeks. Significant military victory at Koniggratz [Sadowa]. • Role of Prussian army in defeating France: decisive victory at battle of Sedan, a triumph of leadership and military skill. HOMEWORK/SUPP READ P. 111 114 AND TAKE NOTES (we will study these wars later)

OTTO VON BISMARCK Homework/supp read p. 111 114

Bismarck supported the King in the dispute and, by finding and using a loophole in the constitution, was able to obtain the money to fund the army improvements. He saved the King from abdication and in 1862 was appointed Minister President of Prussia, becoming the King’s main advisor and the leading figure in the unification of Germany. Bismarck supported the King because The King was divinely appointed and Bismarck completely accepted his authority as King Bismarck believed that monarchy was the best form of government Bismarck did not accept the right of an elected parliament to limit the power of the monarch or interfere with the army/budget Bismarck believed that a strong army was a crucial tool in the unification process Bismarck believed that liberals had held up the unification process in the past and that unification could not be achieved without strong political leadership and military force.

The Aftermath The Landtag were furious with Bismarck, as he had defeated them over the dispute and had proved the King’s constitutional power was greater than theirs. However, as Prussia grew richer and as the successful wars against Denmark and Austria unified most of the German states, the Landtag liberals, who were also German nationalists and pro unification, forgave Bismarck and became increasingly cooperative with both Bismarck and William I.

Sub conclusion Solving the constitutional crisis is an example of Bismarck’s opportunism and realpolitik in the steps to unification. Opportunism: taking advantage of opportunities that present themselves Realpolitik: doing what is practical vs what is ideal (Bismarck’s aim: Prussia to lead the German nation)

Bismarck homework/supp task Read about Bismarck in your textbooks (P. 38 41 GOLD) or p. 111 114 (BLUE) OR Mc. K p 47 Then Write a paragraph about Bismarck Make notes on: Bismarck’s background in politics between 1851 – 1862 – where had he worked, roles held, conclusions he’d come to. Crisis that required Bismarck’s input. His aims according to Gorman

Quotes “I will rather perish with the King than forsake your Majesty in the contest with parliamentary government” “Germany looks not to Prussia’s liberalism but to her power…. . Not by parliamentary speeches and majority votes are the great questions of the day determined – that was the great mistake of 1848 and 1849 – but by iron and blood. ” Bismarck ‘”Bismarck was transformed from a politician into the smith who forged the Reich’ -Adolf Hitler

sqa The role of Bismarck • Bismarck’s aim was to increase the power of Prussia by whatever means necessary. • Bismarck and his ‘realpolitik’/diplomacy in the ‘ 3 wars’ against Denmark, Austria and France. • Bismarck took the initiative, as opposed to Austria, in the war against Denmark; his ‘solution’ to the Schleswig Holstein question. • Bismarck’s skilful manipulation of events leading up to the war with Austria in 1866 plus his establishment of friendships with potential allies of Austria beforehand. • Bismarck’s wisdom in the Treaty of Prague, 1866. • Bismarck’s manipulation of the Ems Telegram to instigate a war with France in 1870. • Bismarck’s exploitation of the weaknesses of European statesmen/rulers eg Napoleon III; mistakes made by Bismarck’s adversaries. • Bismarck’s skill in isolating his intended targets (diplomatically). WE WILL DO

The three wars of German Unification/ Prussianisation

War Danish War 1864 Austro Prussian War 1866 Franco-Prussian War 1870/71 Opportunity for war Diplomacy to Aggressive isolate victim party

Danish War 1864

Schleswig Holstein Crisis & war with Denmark 1864 1. AS A CLASS READ p. 115 116 2. Copy the note below: 1863 Danish King Christian IX proposes a reform of Danish constitution to make Schleswig & Holstein Danish CRISIS! German nationalists protest. Bund sends troops as protection for Germans in S and H. Bismarck asks Austria to help the Germans defeat Denmark.

Broke London Protocol, exert control Duchies run by a Duke ber Mem he of t d Bun Defender of German speakers

Outcome of the Danish War Quick victory for Prussia and Austria over Denmark The Convention of Gastein 1865 gave: Holstein to Austria to administer Schleswig given to Prussia to administer (Bund has no jurisdiction in either) This situation set the scene for war between Austria and Prussia Bismarck really wanted to annex both Duchies to have control of naval base at Kiel, Holstein Bismarck seen as a protector and unifier of Germans. Previous Prussian army budget seen as worthwhile. Liberal nationalists now approve of Bismarck

Danish War 1864 Page 115 – 117(blue) p. 48/49 (gold) make sure you have notes on this Who lived in Schleswig and Holstein What did Denmark do that provoked Prussia 2 reasons for Bismarck’s involvement How was Denmark, the victim, isolated by Bismarck How would Austria have come out of this situation – think about who instigated the war Outcome of the war

Austro-Prussian War 1866

Having relied on Austria for support in the Danish war, Bismarck now turned his attention to fighting against her Bismarck needed an excuse / opportunity for war with Austria Holstein was given to Austria to administer. It was surrounded by Prussian territory. Prussia now controlled Austrian access to its duchy. Mitchell calls this a ‘master stroke’

Austrian Prussian war 1. As a class read p. 118 123 2. ACTIVITY create a mind map or write a paragraph about the events of the Austrian/Prussian war. Background to war – what was the opportunity for conflict How did Bismarck isolate Austria. What diplomacy was used – detail needed on France, Britain, and Russia His alliance with Italy The outcome of the war Who was made out to be the aggressive party and how/why

Why did Prussia win? The Austrian army, though large, was out of date in terms of mobilisation and equipment. Prussia mobilised large forces very rapidly (railways) The Prussian army was also modern and superior in terms of equipment. William I’s reforms had paid off. Austria had to split its forces in two and fight on the Italian front. Prussia had excellent railway and telegram networks. Von Roon and Von Moltke (the leaders of the Prussian army) were very able.

After the war • Bismarck is lenient with Austria: • “We have to avoid wounding Austria too severely, we have to avoid leaving behind in her unnecessary bitterness or feeling or desire for revenge. We ought to keep the possibility of becoming friends again. ” • Bismarck has what he wanted. Austria out of German affairs. • Example of opportunity, planning, others’ mistakes (notably Austria)

North German Confederation • • Dominated by Prussia All states north of River Main are members Not a voluntary confederation The State has rights to • Make war and peace • Decide foreign policy • Member states decide own internal affairs • President of NGC = Prussian King. He chooses heads of armed forces and Chancellor. • 2 houses • Bundesrat – Upper house. Chosen State reps dominated by Prussians • Reichstag – Lower house elected by universal suffrage

Outcome of the Austro-Prussian War Prussia now led the North German Confederation and had excluded Austria for good from German affairs.

The only states out with Prussian control were the Southern German states, who still remained loyal to Austria and fearful of Prussia. How would Bismarck get them on side?

The Franco Prussian War 1870 1871

Creating a Threat Bismarck needed to create a threat to the Southern states which would make them come to Prussia for help Who would pose such a threat? ……. . the French

Background Four southern states remained independent and not part of the North German Confederation Hesse Darmstodt, Bavaria, Wurtemberg and Baden. Bismarck knew that he could not simply annexe these states. He also knew, however, that a potential threat from France would stir up German nationalism in the southern states and that these states, deprived of Austria, would then look to Prussia as a ‘big brother’. SECRET ALLIANCES Bismarck engineered secret alliances between Prussia and the four southern states before the Treaty of Prague had been signed at the end of the Austro Prussian War. These alliances stated that in the event of war the south German states would fight with Prussia and also place their armies under direct Prussian control.

Why did the French fight alone? Once again, Bismarck made sure that his enemy was isolated. The Austrians were grateful for the lenient Treaty of Prague. The British were hostile to the French because Bismarck had leaked details of Napoleon’s interest in Belgium. The Italians were happy with their territorial gains at the end of the Franco Prussian War. They were also hostile to the French because of the presence of a French army in Rome, which was preventing Italian unification.

ISOLATE THE ENEMY Officially, Russia was an ally of France but Bismarck used diplomacy to make sure Russia stayed out of the up coming war. Bismarck also made sure Italy stayed neutral and wouldn't fight for France. Bismarck gambled that the British would stay out of the war since it didn't want France to become any more powerful than it already was.

Franco Prussian war 1870 - 71 Bismarck found his excuse for war when Spain offered its vacant crown to a relative of the Prussian King, William I. France was outraged since it didn't want Prussia to become more powerful. The French insisted King William make his relative refuse the crown. King William refused to guarantee this. Bismarck used the King's refusal as a way to provoke the French.

EMS TELEGRAPH Bismarck published a heavily edited and provocative telegram, known as The Ems Telegram, of the King's refusal, making it seem he had insulted the French ambassador. The French Emperor, responding to fury from the French press and public, declared war on Prussia. In the Franco Prussian war, France was heavily defeated and its ruler, Napoleon III, was overthrown by a French rebellion.

Causes of Prussian victory over France. January 1871 Better Prussian artillery Better mobilisation of army. 6 German railway lines to French border. France had 2. The German armies mobilised in 18 days and the Germans invaded France, so the French were always fighting a defensive war. Once again the Prussian military proved to be decisive. The French suffered heavy defeats at Metz and Sedan. Napoleon’s government was overthrown and a republic was declared. Better commander: General von Moltke Weak defensive tactics adopted by the French. The Southern states fought with the North German Confederation, because of Bismarck’s secret alliances. Paris was besieged for several months until the French surrendered in January 1871.

The Treaty of Frankfurt This was far harsher than the peace treaty with Austria had been. France was forced to pay an indemnity of £ 200 million within 4 years. Territory was annexed, most notably Alsace and Lorraine. The German army triumphantly marched through Paris.

Franco-Prussian War 1870 blue p. 123 128 Gold p. 55 58 Write a paragraph about Spanish Candidature situation Ems Telegram How the Southern states were brought on side Outcome of the war

Wars of unification summary A series of 3 wars were fought before Germany finally unified For each one we need to know 3 things: What the opportunity for was What diplomacy Bismarck used to isolate his enemy Who Bismarck portrayed as the aggressive party In each war, Bismarck proved to be highly significant

Reasons for Prussia’s Success in the Wars of Unification Bismarck’s diplomacy ensured that Prussia’s enemies had no allies eg Denmark. Bismarck provoked other countries into declaring war first so that Prussia always appeared to have been acting in self defence eg France. Prussia herself had an ally in two of the wars, so had larger armed forces to use (vs Denmark, vs Austria). Prussia took advantage of weak leadership to manoeuvre countries into war esp. France.

War Danish War 1864 Austro Prussian War 1866 Franco-Prussian War 1870/71 Opportunity for war Diplomacy to Aggressive isolate victim party

Consequences of war with Denmark 1864 1. Prussia seen as the protector of German states against the threat of Denmark 2. Recently reformed Prussian army was tested in an easy war and found to be efficient 3. Cornered Austria into accepting Bismarck’s decisions about Holstein & Schleswig at Convention of Gastein 1865. This agreement would make it easier for Bismarck to provoke Austria into a war later Consequences of war with Austria 1866 • Treaty of Prague – lenient to Austria • New North German Confederation created and also the much weaker south German confederation • Liberals so pleased with Bismarck and the process of German unification that they forgive Bismarck’s actions over army reforms and budget Consequences of war with France 1870 – 71 • South German confederation realises there only chance of security was as part of a strong unified Germany. In the Palace of Versailles, the German princess proclaim King Willhelm of Prussia as Kaiser (Emperor) of a unified Germany

Mistakes of Others German unification BAD EMS TELEGRAPH

French Errors Austrian Errors Austro-Prussian War Danish War The Spanish Candidature Austro-Prussian War (politically) The Franco-Prussian War Austro-Prussian War (militarily)

Being fooled in 1866 that she would gain territory if she stayed neutral in Austrian war Being persuaded to put in writing her territorial demands which could then be released to the press in the southern states in 1870 Over-reacting and being enraged by Bismarck putting Leopold Hohenzollern forward as a candidate for the Spanish throne in 1870 Benedetti breaking diplomatic protocol in the town of Bad Ems in 1870 Being provoked into declaring war on Prussia over the publication of the Ems Telegram France

*BAD EMS TELEGRAPH Abeken's message His Majesty the King has written to me: Count Benedetti intercepted me on the promenade and ended by demanding of me, in a very importunate manner, that I should authorize him to telegraph at once that I bound myself in perpetuity never again to give my consent if the Hohenzollerns renewed their candidature. I rejected this demand somewhat sternly, as it is neither right nor possible to undertake engagements of this kind [for ever and ever]. Naturally, I told him that I had not yet received any news and, since he had been better informed via Paris and Madrid than I was, he must surely see that my government was not concerned in the matter. [The King, on the advice of one of his ministers], decided, in view of the above-mentioned demands, not to receive Count Benedetti any more, but to have him informed, by an adjutant, that His Majesty had now received [from Leopold] confirmation of the news which Benedetti had already had from Paris and had nothing further to say to the ambassador. His Majesty suggests to Your Excellency, that Benedetti's new demand its rejection might well be communicated both to our ambassadors and to the Press.

Bismarck's published version After the news of the renunciation of the Prince von Hohenzollern had been communicated to the Imperial French government by the Royal Spanish government, the French Ambassador in Ems made a further demand on His Majesty the King that he should authorize him to telegraph to Paris that His Majesty the King undertook for all time never again to give his assent should the Hohenzollerns once more take up their candidature. His Majesty the King thereupon refused to receive the Ambassador again and had the latter informed by the Adjutant of the day that His Majesty had no further communication to make to the Ambassador.

Losing Russia as an ally in 1853 – p 108 Austria became involved in the Danish war, a war from her borders and nothing to do with her BUT because she had to be ‘persuaded’ to ally Prussia she appeared not to care about her fellow Germans – Austria couldn’t win here! She refused in 1866 to join in peace talks to avert war therefore looked aggressive She allowed herself to be antagonised by Bismarck and declared war on Prussia She mobilised her troops before Prussia along her therefore looking aggressive Austria

French Errors Austrian Errors Austro-Prussian War Danish War The Spanish Candidature Austro-Prussian War (politically) The Franco-Prussian War Austro-Prussian War (militarily)

Actions of Napoleon III

Actions of Napoleon III sqa ADD THIS TO YOUR NOTES ABOUT MISTAKES OF OTHERS. The actions of Napoleon III • Napoleon had ambitions to emulate his famous namesake as a major statesman. His successes against Austria may have made him careless in his dealings with Bismarck eg he was seduced by Bismarck’s hint that he could have possible territorial gains in the Low Countries. • He overreacted over the Hohenzollern candidature, giving Bismarck the opportunity to doctor the Ems Telegram and provoke war. • His military leadership in the Franco Prussian War was poor. He allowed himself to be surrounded and captured at Sedan, effectively ending the war.

historiography

OPPORTUNIST quotes “ A statesman is like a man wandering in the forest who knows his general direction but not the exact point at which he will emerge from the wood. ” Bismarck’s task of unifying Germany was made easier by circumstances. If he played his hand with great skill, it was a good one in the first place. ” G. L. Mosse “His policies can at best be regarded as flexible” Aronson “Bismarck did not fashion German unity alone. He exploited powerful forces which already existed – economic, liberalism and nationalism. ” Williamson “His diplomacy was much more subtle, flexible and many sided than his utterances sometimes suggest. ” William Carr “He did not control events, but was influenced by them. ” Mc. Kichan Gorman: ‘war was not his sole aim, but it was one of a variety of possibilities open to him. ’ Williamson agrees: ‘Bismarck knowingly risked war, even though he probably hoped to avoid it. ’ For more see page 60. Mc. K

ARCHITECT quotes “Prussia must gather and consolidate her strength for the favourable moment. ” Bismarck “It was he [Bismarck] who created the conditions which rendered possible the creation of Great Germany. ” Hitler “Only under the stimulation provided by Bismarck…. did German nationalism begin to move the masses. ” Pflanze The smith who forged the Reich. ” Hitler “There is absolutely no doubt that he [Bismarck] set his sights on Austria…. . and worked to isolate her from the other European powers. ” Cameron, Robertson and Henderson. “I did not doubt that a Franco German war must take place before the construction of a united Germany could be realised. ” Bismarck Mitchell: ‘almost as soon as Bismarck had dealt with Austria, there began the conflict with Napoleon III which would lead to the F P war. ’ For more see page 59. Mc. K

Bismarck Opportunist or Planner? His contribution to the Unification of Germany by 1871 The years 1870 and 1871 were dramatic for Bismarck and Europe, with France defeated, Germany united as an Empire and the balance of power in Europe totally altered. How much was this due to Bismarck? It is possible to argue that Bismarck did not make Germany: rather Germany made Bismarck. A variety of factors German nationalism, Prussian economic growth, the international situation in the 1860 s, the Prussian army were such that Bismarck was able to gain the credit for bringing about a unification which may well have developed natu rally, whoever had been in power. However, whatever view is taken about the 'inevitability' of German unification, it is clear that it hap pened as it did and when it did largely as a result of Bismarck's actions. His precise aims baffled contemporaries and continue to baffle histo rians. It is difficult to disentangle his motives and to decide how far he planned ahead. While it is probably wrong to believe he came to power in 1862 with a master plan for German unification, it is equally wrong to imagine that he had no long term objectives and fumbled his way through events simply by good luck. He manipulated situations even if he did not always create them. He had clear aims but the exact means of achieving them were left to short term decisions based on the situ ation at the time. Perhaps his main skill as a diplomat lay in his ability to isolate his enemy. He was not essentially a warmonger. For Bismarck, wars were a risky means to an end. However, confident in the strength of the Prussian army, he was prepared in 1866 and in 1870 to engineer war to achieve his end. The Unification of Germany 1815 – 90, Andrina Stiles and Alan Farmer, Access to History Series, Second Edition 2001; page 95

Clearly very important …. . BUT Eyck argues that ‘Bismarck’s task of unifying Germany was made easier by circumstances. If he played his hand with great skill, it was a good one in the first place’ AND Seaman suggests that ‘Bismarck could have done little had not his victims made themselves his accomplices (helpers) by their folly (foolishness)

Overall …. . Therefore, Bismarck was able to act on the opportunities which arose from the mistakes of others and exploit them Stiles suggests, ‘Bismarck was the supreme opportunist’ suggesting he was a master in finding opportunities and using them to help him Mc. Kichan “Otto von Bismarck, who played a greater part than any other individual in eventually brining Germany together as one state”

summary

Factors Decline of Austria Prussian economic strength Prussian military strength The role of Bismarck The attitude of the states Actions of Napoleon III Cultural Factors Put these factors in order of importance. (use the quotes on the following slide to help, make sure you can justify your answer)

ARGUMENT CULTURAL- Mc. Kichan re cultural nationalism “However it did not seem very likely in the years after 1815 that this would succeed in uniting Germany”. Mc. Kichan – Most historians agree that these ideas were held by relatively limited numbers of educated town dwellers NAPOLEON- Thomson suggests ‘The French united the German states in a common feeling of resentment against them’ – showed that people felt common bond ECONOMIC- Carr 'It would be inappropriate to see the Zollverein as the forerunner of German political unity' Stiles (as a result of being leader of the Zollverein) 'Prussia came to be regarded by many as the natural leader of a united Germany' Carr Railways were of great political significance. They helped to break down provincial barriers …. And underlined the need for national unification BISMARCK- Mc. Kichan “Otto von Bismarck, who played a greater part than any other individual in eventually brining Germany together as one state” SEE QUOTES FROM BISMARCK SECTION

HISTORICAL DEBATE Williamson believes that it was not Bismarck alone who united Germany but a mix of factors and that Bismarck was just one part of this mix “Bismarck did not fashion German unity alone. He exploited powerful forces which already existed”. Mosse Believes the situation of Prussia was key importance to unification “Busmarcks task of unifying Gemrnay was made easier by circumstance. If he played his hand with great skill, it was a good hand in the first place” Craig Bismarck cannot be dismissed as of prime importance. “Whatever might be said of the movement of economic forces, there is no burking the fact that the decision concerning the form of unification would take was made, not in the area of economic and commercial policy but on the battlefield of Konigrattz in 1866”.

Essay plan. See the hand out unification essay plan to plan your essay (on these slides (UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU MISS OUT BISMARCK OR THE PRUSSIAN MILITARY. ) Intro – Germany unified 1871 etc Nationalism continuing to grow – Nationalverein/ anniversaries etc. EVALUATE the strengths and weaknesses of this type of nationalism – effective? Necessary before someone like Bismarck could unite the German states? Prussian economic strength – ‘coal and iron’ EXAMPLES e. g. taxes that paid for military reforms, railway lines built which led to quick Prussian mobilisation during Wars of Unification etc Decline of Austria/favourable international situation. Schwarzenburg, Crimean War, economic isolation, wars with Italy Prussian Military –Army Reforms – EVAULUATE the importance of these. DON’T JUST WRITE ABOUT ARMY REFORMS – Explain the success of the army in each of the three Wars of Unification – give EXAMPLES – defeat of the Danish in 9 months, defeat of the Austrians in 7 weeks, battle of Konnigratz, quick mobilisation and invasion of France in 1870, forcing France to fight a defensive war, Battles of Metz and Sedan, siege of Paris. Bismarck’s role SPLIT IT – EITHER into: Wars of Unification. Careful not to story tell here – give examples of what Bismarck did and how it contributed to unification. ! OR Planning/Opportunism CONCLUSION

Economic Nationalism • Zollverein 1818, 1828, 1834 • United members economically • Example of working as one • Railways • Iron and coal Decline of Austria • Ridded Prussia of key opponent to nationalism • Declined economically, diplomatically and politically • Excluded from affairs after 1866 The Army Reforms Importance in winning the wars Cultural Nationalism • Romantic Movement • Middle class movement in favour of unity • Only way people could express their political views Mistakes of Others What unified Germany? Austria – Zollverein exclusion, Losing Russia, 1864, 1866 France – 1866, 1870 Bismarck’s Role Factors influencing Unity • Role in army reforms • Supreme Opportunist – exploited opportunities – used diplomacy to isolate, found aggressor • Exploited / contributed to mistakes of others • Speeded up process, did not ‘create’ it