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Period: to
1847-1849
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Germans agree on the need for an independent Germany
An assembly of liberals from south-western states agreed on the urgent need for an independent German parliament. -
February Revolution in France
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Declaration of Heidelberg
51 representatives from six German states discussed changes to Germany's political institutions. In a Declaration they agreed: "that as soon as possible a more complete assembly of men of trust from all German peoples should come together in order to contiunue deliberation of this most important matter and to offer its cooperation to the Fatherland as well as to the Governments." -
Workers' riots in Berlin
As a consequence to the workers' attitude, the middle class draws closer to the ruling class. -
Demonstration of workers in Berlin
Occured after news of the revolution in Paris reached Berlin. -
King William of Prussia accepts the idea of a new German Constitution
A large crows gathers outside the royal palace to cheer him, but soon the cheering turned into caos as troops tried to clear the streets. -
King William appears outside his balcony
Due to a misunderstanding, William's troops left him and he has no option but to show himself to his people. -
King William grants some liberal reforms
After appearing in the streets wearing the colours of Germany, he declares: "I want liberty: I will have unity in Germany." He agrees to elections of constitutent assembly and appointsa a liberal ministry. -
Vorparlament assembles at Frankfurt
574 representatives from almost all the states of the German Confederation assembled in St Paul's Church in Frankfurt. Its aim was to prepare the way for a real parliament. They agreed that for every 500,000 inhabitatns each state would choose one representative and that only citizens with a considerable amount of property could vote. -
First meeting of the Prussian Parliament
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First meeting of the Frankfurt Parliament
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Duchies of Schleswig-Holstein occupied by Prussia
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Armistice of Malmö
Prussia makes paece with Denmark by withdrawing its troops. -
King William appoints his uncle Count Brandenburg to head a new ministry.
This means the end of the revolution. -
Frankfurt Parliament approves the Fifty Articles of the fundamental rights of the German citizen
These articles included: equality before hte law, freedom of worship, freedom of press and end to discrimination due to classes. -
Prussian Parliament dissolved by a royal decree
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New Prussian Constitution
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Frankfurt Parliament agrees to a Constitution
Germany would be a constitutional monarchy under the Prussian King Frederick William as the emperor. There were to be two houses: a lower house made up of common 'men of good reputation' and an upper house made up of the reigning monarchs and princes of the Confederation. -
Frankfurt Parliament dispersed by the King's troops
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King Frederick William refuses the German crown offered by the Frankfurt Parliament
Members of the Frankfurt Parliament loose heart and abandon the parliament