Review of Steinberg, Bismark. H-German (original) (raw)

Otto Von Bismarck: The Master Diplomat of Germany

is regarded as an outstanding statesman and diplomat for his accomplishments, successfully unifying the German-speaking states. He led the Prussian military into victory in three short and decisive wars, isolating Austria and France, and making them unable to oppose unification. However, the actions of his life are critical to remember in our modern age. Von Bismarck was ruthless in ensuring he met his goals. He would use any means necessary to ensure Prussian dominance in their sphere of influence. Through his manipulative debates and underhanded tactics, he began wars that led to much suffering in Europe. The world must be aware that great leaders often have ulterior motives and that war should always be a last resort.

FROM THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE GERMAN UNION TO WORLD WAR I: DIPLOMACY OF BISMARCK AND THE CRISIS

This study aims to explore the evolution of the new struggle of power that had begun with the establishment of the German Union and lasted until World War I. As the start of this subject, the dates between 1862, Bismarck becoming the prime minister, and 1914, the beginning of World War I, will be examined. The subject matter will be initiated by specifying the opinions of Bismarck about the German Union and the European balance of power. Since the German Union’s effort of becoming hegemon in Europe, caused regional, and international political conflicts, these conflicts will be specified and subsequently the crisis that lead to the World War I will be examined. These explorations and examinations will be concluded by making inferences after scanning the resources. Particular attention will be given to explain in a chronological order. 3

The Bismarck Plan: German Unification and the Balance of Power

This paper is on the Bismarck Plan. The premise of this plan was to unify all the German principalities under Prussian rule. Once that was accomplished Bismarck adjusted his plan using treaties and alliances with other countries in Europe to keep war away from Germany for as long as possible or at least until Germany was ready militarily or diplomatically to defend herself. In order to better understand where the idea of Bismarck’s Plan came from, the origin of the ideas of nationalism and unification must first be discussed. No discussion on German unification would be complete without some background on Bismarck, not so much a biography of him, but more to give an idea of his thought process. The three wars of unification and their impact upon Europe along with each particular alliance and treaty that was made between Germany and the other European powers is central to Bismarck’s plan. Some of these alliances and treaties directly involved Germany and some indirectly involved Germany. Each will be analyzed to see how they interrelate, and Bismarck’s role. Bismarck’s plan fell apart quickly after he left office. From all of this it will be clear that Bismarck did indeed have a plan or a purpose if you will. The plan was not written down nor was it stated by Bismarck, if anything it was kept in his head. The purpose and the results of the plan are very clear in how fast Germany rose to prominence in Europe without really any threat of a major war. The Prussians were able to fight three minor wars without involving the entire continent. This is a testament to Bismarck and the goals that he set for Prussia and then Germany.