The Unification of Germany

Formation of the German Confederation

Jan 1, 1815

39 States unify to create the German Confederation. They are dominated by the Austrian Empire

Prussian revolution of 1848

Nov 1, 1848

Prussian army takes control of Berlin, and the king assumes absolute power.

Otto Von Bismark is appointed prime minister

Jan 1, 1862

Wilhelm I appoints Bismark who applys his realpolitil views, he will go on to become one of the commanding figures in German history.

War against Denmark

Period: Jan 1, 1863 to Jan 1, 1864

German Confederation formed an army led by Prussia and Austria invaded the Dutchees. This victory leads to an increased feeling of nationalism.

Seven Weeks War

Feb 23, 1866

Arguments between Austria and Prussia lead to a war between the two, the war lasts seven weeks and Prussia wins. Prussia gets the leading state in Germany.

Franco-Prussian War

Period: Jul 19, 1870 to May 10, 1871

France declared war on Prussia, but Prussia won and imprisoned the French ruler. The start of German nationalism.

King William Declared King

Jan 18, 1871

King William I of Prussia was declared the emporer of Germany.