Prussia did more to unite than divide Germany. How far do you agree with this view of the period from 1789 to 1919?

The unification of Germany under Prussian leadership in the 19th century is a complex and controversial topic. While Prussia undoubtedly played a crucial role in bringing about this outcome, the extent to which it was a force for unity, rather than division, is debatable. This essay will argue that while Prussia's actions did contribute to national unity, its inherent ambition and the methods employed to achieve unification also sowed the seeds of future division.

The Unifying Role of Prussia

There is no doubt that Prussia's strength and ambition were instrumental in overcoming the fragmentation of the German states. <br>King Frederick William III's reforms during the War of Liberation against Napoleon, which included the creation of a unified military and the promotion of nationalism, fostered a sense of German unity.

The subsequent rise of Otto von Bismarck and his implementation of Realpolitik, a pragmatic approach to foreign policy, further consolidated Prussia's position as a dominant force. His skillful manipulation of the Austro-Prussian War of 1866 and the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71, culminating in the establishment of the Second German Empire in 1871, cemented Prussia's leadership and resulted in the unification of most German states under its control.

Furthermore, Prussia's economic power played a significant role in uniting Germany. The development of a modern industrial base, spearheaded by the Zollverein (German Customs Union), stimulated economic growth and interconnectedness between the German states, laying the groundwork for a unified economic and political structure.

Divisive Aspects of Prussian Power

While Prussia's actions resulted in a unified Germany, it is important to acknowledge the inherent tension and division inherent in the process. The unification was largely imposed by Prussia, with limited regard for the aspirations of other German states. This resulted in lingering resentment, particularly in the south, which felt overshadowed by Prussian dominance. The unification also involved a significant degree of military force and political manipulation, creating a sense of bitterness and resentment towards Prussia.

Prussia's pursuit of power and its disregard for the interests of other German states fueled long-term divisions within the newly formed nation. The exclusion of Austria from the empire, particularly controversial for its cultural and historical significance, created a sense of alienation and resentment that would later contribute to conflict between Austria and Germany.

Moreover, the social and political structures established under Prussian leadership favoured the interests of the dominant Prussian elite, leading to resentment among the working class and minorities. The lack of democratic representation and the privileging of Prussian interests over those of other German states further exacerbated the underlying tensions within the German state.

Conclusion

Prussia's legacy in the unification of Germany is a complex one. While its leadership and ambition were instrumental in uniting the German states, it also created lasting divisions. Prussia's dominance, its aggressive means of achieving unification, and the subsequent exclusion of other German interests sowed the seeds of future conflict and instability.

Ultimately, while Prussia's actions undeniably contributed to national unity, its inherent ambition and the methods employed to achieve this goal also laid the groundwork for future division within Germany. The legacy of Prussian power remains a subject of ongoing debate and historical analysis, highlighting the complexities of nation-building and the enduring challenges of balancing unity with inclusivity.