The Challenge of German Nationalism 1789–1919

Section A Passage A (interpretation written for this paper in the style of a historian; not a real quotation): German unification was the work of Bismarck. Through calculated wars against Denmark, Austria and France he created a Prussian-dominated Germany that liberal nationalists had failed to achieve in 1848. Passage B (interpretation written for this paper in the style of a historian; not a real quotation): Bismarck rode a wave he did not create. Economic integration through the Zollverein, the growth of railways and industry, and a rising national culture made unity likely; Bismarck decided only its form. Evaluate the interpretations in both of the passages and explain which you think is more convincing as an explanation of German unification by 1871.

Section B 'Austria was the main obstacle to German unity in the period 1789–1871.' How far do you agree?

Section B Assess the view that German nationalism became increasingly aggressive in the period 1871–1919.