Warfare was more important than political developments in uniting Germany. How far do you agree with this view of the period from 1789 to 1919?

The unification of Germany was a complex process, influenced by both political and military factors. While the wars of unification in the 19th century played a significant role in uniting Germany, they were not the sole catalyst. Political developments, such as the growth of German nationalism and the rise of Prussia, were equally crucial in shaping the German nation. This essay will argue that both warfare and political developments were essential for German unification, with each playing a distinct but interdependent role.


Warfare undoubtedly contributed significantly to German unification. The series of wars fought by Prussia against Denmark in 1864, Austria in 1866, and France in 1870-71, collectively known as the Wars of Unification, were instrumental in consolidating German territories. These wars provided a common enemy, fostering a sense of national identity and solidarity among the German people. The victories against powerful nations like Austria and France further boosted national pride and cemented Prussia's dominance within the German Confederation. The Franco-Prussian War, in particular, proved pivotal. The defeat of France, a long-standing rival, brought about the demise of the French-dominated Second Empire and propelled Prussia to a position of power in Europe. Otto von Bismarck, the Prime Minister of Prussia, masterfully used these military triumphs to legitimize Prussian leadership and achieve his ultimate aim of a united Germany under Prussian hegemony.

However, political developments were equally crucial. The rise of Prussian power under Bismarck was driven by a blend of political pragmatism and a shrewd understanding of the prevailing social and economic conditions. Bismarck's "Realpolitik" approach focused on achieving practical goals through calculated alliances and power-play, setting aside idealistic or moral considerations. His astute political maneuvering, coupled with the growing economic strength of Prussia, allowed him to exploit existing tensions and rivalries within the German Confederation. Furthermore, the growth of German nationalism, fueled by Romantic ideals, economic aspirations, and a desire for political autonomy, created a fertile ground for unification. This growing sense of national consciousness, particularly in the intellectuals and middle class, provided the political foundation for Bismarck's policies. The cultural movement known as the "Vormärz" (pre-March) fostered a sense of national identity, emphasizing shared culture, language, and history, while the "Zollverein" (German Customs Union) facilitated economic integration and furthered the sense of shared purpose.

It is important to acknowledge the interrelation between warfare and political developments. The wars themselves were fueled by the political ambitions of Bismarck, fueled by the growing nationalism in Germany. Conversely, the military successes during the wars further strengthened the political legitimacy of Prussia and fueled the nationalist sentiment. Therefore, to claim that one was more important than the other is a reductionist view. Bismarck's skillful maneuvering in the political arena shaped the conditions for war, and the outcome of the wars solidified his political power, ultimately leading to the creation of the German Empire in 1871.

In conclusion, both warfare and political developments were vital to the unification of Germany. The wars provided a catalyst for uniting German territories and solidified Prussian dominance, while political developments, such as the growth of German nationalism and Bismarck's astute leadership, provided the foundation and framework for unification. While the wars played a prominent role in bringing about German unification, it was not solely due to military victories. Political developments and the interplay of various factors, both internal and external, played an equally significant role in shaping the outcome of the process. The unification of Germany, therefore, was a complex and multifaceted process that cannot be attributed to a single factor.