Unification of Germany

Before Germany was united, there were 25 independent states. Each state had its own ruler, laws and custom duties. They were divided but all spoke German

The strongest of these states was Prussia because it was ruled by the Kaiser and had a large and experienced military.It's chancellor was Otto Von Bismarck

Bismarck believed in militarism, and wanted to unify all the states to create one country under Prussian leadership

Many of the states agreed to unify as it will eliminate the threat of invasion by Russia and France

Prussia started gaining power as they were involved in many wars for territory

Prussia was involved in the Franco-Prussian war between 1870-1871 and won

France had to give away the counties Alsace and Lorraine which were industrial regions. They also had to give £200 000 to Germany.

France felt embarrassed and was furious at Germany

Germany became a united country