The Unification of Germany

**aqalieh95** Tue May 24, 2011 4:52 pm

What were Bismarck's aims in 1862?
1. He was seeking opportunities to enlarge Prussia and make Prussia the dominant power over German Confederation, and maintain relationships with other countries while seizing power
What was the significance of the Schleswig-Holstein crisis for (a) German nationalists and (b) Bismarck?
1. German nationalists got a chance to seize power in northern Germany under leadership of German Duke Frederick of Augustenberg
2. It was chance for Prussia to seize annexation of the duchies. But this would be opposed by Austria. However, Austria also saw Schleswig-Holstein as a threat. Austria and Prussia created an alliance and settled the conflict. Two powers agree to share the administration of the duchies, but this eventually led to war between Austria and Prussia in 1866 Convention of Gastein in 1865 laid down that Austria wouldadminister Holstein and Prussia would administer Schleswig
How did the Schleswig-Holstein crisis lead to war between Prussia and Austria?
1. After defeating the Danish in Schleswig-Holstein crisis, two powers agree to share administration of duchies. However, relationships between Prussia and Austria deteriorated when Austria supported idea of Frederick of Austenberg ruling Schleswig-Holstein. Although Prussia gained control over Holstein, Bismarck visited France and assured the king that he might gain some territory if he remained neutral during Austro-Prussian conflict. He also made an alliance with Italy to fight against Austria.
What was theconsequences of the Austro-Prussian war for (a) Austria, (b) Prussia, (c) other German states?
1. Defeated by Prussia.The lost a lot of their power over German Confederation
2. Prussia won the war.They gained a lot of territory and respect from other European countries.
3. Napoleon III plays arole in the conflict