Why was Bismarck appointed Minister-President of Prussia in 1862?

Otto von Bismarck's appointment as Minister-President of Prussia in 1862 was a pivotal moment in German history. His appointment can be attributed to a confluence of factors, most notably the escalating constitutional crisis in Prussia and Bismarck's perceived ability to navigate this crisis.

The crux of the crisis resided in the proposed army reforms. King Wilhelm I, eager to strengthen the Prussian military, sought to increase the length of military service and expand the army's size. However, the liberal majority in the Prussian Parliament opposed these reforms, viewing them as a threat to their constitutional power and civilian control over the military. This clash of ideologies resulted in a stalemate, with neither the King nor the Parliament willing to concede. The Prussian Parliament only agreed to increase the military budget for one year in 1860 and would not extend military service from two to three years. Parliament's refusal to pass the army bill continued, even after a new parliament was elected in December of 1861, leading the king to dissolve the parliament. By September 1862, the crisis had reached a fever pitch, with the king even contemplating abdication.

It was against this backdrop of crisis that Bismarck entered the scene. Bismarck, a Junker landowner and staunch supporter of the monarchy, had gained a reputation for his unwavering conservatism and his willingness to challenge conventional political norms. He was seen by some as the person who could break the deadlock.

Bismarck's appointment was facilitated by several key figures, including the influential War Minister, General Albrecht von Roon. Roon, a close confidant of the King and a staunch advocate for military reform, recognized Bismarck's potential to resolve the crisis. He had been recommending Bismarck to head the government since 1858 and viewed him as the only one who could push through the army reforms. Bismarck, true to form, did not disappoint. Upon his appointment, he boldly declared his intention to implement the army reforms, even without parliamentary approval. This audacious stance, combined with his unwavering loyalty to the crown, resonated with King Wilhelm I, who saw in Bismarck a resolute leader capable of navigating Prussia through the crisis.

In conclusion, Bismarck's appointment was a calculated risk taken by a monarch facing a constitutional crisis. His appointment was not due to his popularity or widespread support but rather his unwavering support for the King and his willingness to challenge the status quo. Bismarck's appointment, while seemingly drastic, proved to be a turning point in German history, setting in motion a series of events that would ultimately lead to German unification.

**Sources:**

Clark, C. (2011). *Iron Kingdom: The Rise and Downfall of Prussia, 1600-1947*. Penguin Books.
Pflanze, O. (1990). *Bismarck and the Development of Germany*. Princeton University Press.