Sequence of Events That Led to the German Unification

Napoleon Raids German Lands

Period: Jan 1, 1806 to Jan 1, 1812

Napoleon made major territorial changes to the German speaking nation. He even disolved the Holy Roman Empire.

Zolleverin

Jan 1, 1830

Prussia created an economic union called the Zolleverein. And this took off many tarrifs off of German States. Also, Zolleverin brought some unity to German States.

Liberals Meeting

Jan 1, 1848

Liberala demand German political unity during the Frankfurt Assembly meeting.

Otto von Bismarck delivers his "blood and iron" speech

Jan 1, 1862

This speech is basically a speech given about the unification of the German States.

Bismarck Unites Germany

Jan 1, 1862

After King William I makes Bismarck the chancellor, Bismarck uses his "blood and iron" policy to unite the German States under Prussian power

Prussia Fights Austria

Jan 1, 1866

Prussia become victorious from this war and gains control over north German states.

Franco-Prussian War

Jan 1, 1870

This war later leads to the victory of Prussia and the new formation of the German Empire

Birth of the German Empire

Jan 1, 1871

After the victory of Prussia against France, the princes of the German States wanted King William I to be emperor of the German States. And this was the birth of the second Reich, or empire.