German Unification

During the XVIII and XIX centuries, Napoleon caused national and liberal ideas to

spread all over Europe. These ideas were the beginning of a wave of national revolutions on

the search for the people's nation. The liberal and nationalistic ideas were a characteristic of

these movements, the influence of various authors were a core part of these revolutions. Also,

these changes were significant in geopolitics and Germany is a perfect example of this

phenomenon.

Germany was a conglomerate of kingdoms and they were not the same State. These

Nations were independent kingdoms that had people with a shared culture and history

interacting in a territory to which they had a cultural attachment. These Nations had

individual States and some parts of Germany were joined to France.The Kingdom of Prussia

ruled by the Hohenzollers and the Kingdom of Austria ruled by the Habsburgs were the two

dominant German states that developed a rivalry because of fluctuations of power in the Holy

Roman Empire (Kirby, 2023). As stated in an article published by the U.S. government:

“Traditionally Austria was the dominant German state, and as such the

Habsburg king was elected as the Holy Roman Emperor. This influence started to

change in the 1740s when Prussia, strengthened by newly acquired lands and an

enlarged military, began to challenge Austria’s hegemony.” (Office of the Historian,

n.d.)

There were several attempts to unite the German states between 1814 to 1871. The

first attempt occurred out of necesity. When Napoleon's troops passed through the German
States, the Holy Roman Empire dissolved. Creating a great discussion about Central Europe

and the German states. In 1806 the Congress of Vienna met and came to the conclusion that

the German states were frail, making them susceptible to the attack of foreign powers. The

solution they provided was to create the German Confederation, a cluster of 39 states. Which

would provide support to any member under an external attack. The Germanic states opposed

this solution due to the lack of any kind of unity. In response they created an economic union

in 1834 called the Zollverein customs union. The Zollverein was a free trade agreement

between all the German states with exception Austria. This was the first sign that Germany

started to transform from a nation to a State. (Office of the Historin, n.d.)

While this was happening , the effects of the Industrial Revolution were starting to be

visible. The German people started to emigrate to other parts of the world in seek of

economic and political stability (Office of the Historian, n.d.). Germany wanted to be

stronger to be the Power House in Europe and the way to be stronger was by unifying the

States. The idea was to create a country with a lot of investment opportunities and growth

potential. The nations therefore created a Confederation with all the independent states to be

a stranger nation. After the German unification Germany obtained a great flow of income and

became one of the most technological Power houses in the world.

The next effort for unification started in 1848 with the influence of the Paris

Revolution. With the thought of the need for a united Germany, rural riots emerged.

Advocating for principles similar to those of liberalism and several authors of the

Enlightenment like Volataire’s (1759) freedom of press and religious freedom. Also Alexis

de Tocqueville’s (1833) federal system, Cesare Beccaria’s (1764) fair trial by jury, and Karl

Marx' s (1848) abolition of aristocratic privilege. They also pledges for concepts like a
national militia, a national German parliament, and a fair taxation system. The biggest result

of these riots was the election of the first parliament elected freely by German people, the

Frankfurt Parliament. The lack of executive power caused the parliament to quickly

disintegrate in 1849, and the idea of a united German state to extinguish. (Mathew Burke,

n.d.)

After this failed attempt , Otto Von Bismarck, the Prime Minister of Prussia, tried

again to create a German solid State. Otto von Bismarck wanted to unify Germany without

Austria. This was known as a “Smaller Germany'', but some people wanted to unify Germany

with Austria. Which was known as a “Bigger Germany ''. This conflict of how Germany

should be, started a war between the ones who wanted a Bigger Germany and the ones who

wanted a Smaller Germany. As a result of this division of ideas, this movement was not

applied through popular consent, but by a violent militar action (Office of the Historian, n.d.).

This is expressed in a fragment of Otto Von Bismark’s speech:

“Not by speeches and decisions of majorities will the greatest problems of the

time be decided - that was the mistake of 1848-49 - but by iron and blood. This olive

branch (he drew it from his memorandum book) I picked up in Avignon, to offer, as a

symbol of peace, to the popular party: I see, however, that it is still not the time for

it.” (Otto Von Bismarck, 1862)

This last attempt occurred during the course of two wars. First, the Austro-Prussian in

1866. This war was the defining point that would conclude the establishment of either a

smaller Germany, a Germany without Austria, or a greater Germany, with Austria. This battle

was held between Prussia and some allies against Austria alongside some German states.
After a very short fight of only weeks, Prussia won and integrated most of Austria’s German

states, except for its most important allies. In 1867, Bismarck united the northern German

states, led by Prussia, and created the North German Confederation. This was the base for the

German Empire. (The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2023)

The second war was the Franco-Austrian War from 1870-1871. This war was the final step to

create a united Germany. During this war Prussia, commanded by Otto Von Bismarck, fought

against France in order to annex the western German states. France was soon defeated and the

new, united Germany was declared the German Empire on January 17, 1871 in the Palace of

Versailles. When the German Empire was created the nations that had German people in

them joined to form a government and become a State. The first ruler of the German Empire

was Wilhelm I, king of Prussia (The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2023).

 History is usually the result of a series of power relations that hegemonically

influence certain people. Thus, generating revolutions and creating new ideas that influence

the ideological superstructure, affecting the historical context in which one lives. In the case

of Germany, it wasn’t only the relations of power that led to its unification, but the feeling of

union caused by the shared culture between the people of the German states. The Unification

of Germany moved the power established by the Vienna Congress with the creation of a

strong nation in Central Europe. Something very interesting to notice is how the German

states initially tried to unite because they were too weak against foreign attacks, but later they

became one of the most powerful countries of Central Europe and the world.
Carlos Prandini Conclusion:

The revolutions sparked by Napoleon across Europe in the early 19th century had profound

and lasting impacts on the social contracts within various nations. Three distinct social

contracts emerged as a result, reflecting the complex interplay of political, social, and

economic forces during this tumultuous period.

Firstly, the rise of nationalism became a prominent feature of the social contract in many

European nations. Napoleon's conquests and the spread of revolutionary ideas stimulated a

sense of national identity among diverse populations. The Napoleonic Code, with its

emphasis on equality and legal uniformity, contributed to a shared legal framework in some

regions. However, this nationalism was a double-edged sword, as it also fueled conflicts and

rivalries among different ethnic and cultural groups, setting the stage for future tensions.

Secondly, the social contract was significantly influenced by the principles of liberalism. The

French Revolution had introduced ideals of individual rights, representative government, and

the rule of law. Napoleon's Napoleonic Code, although a blend of revolutionary and

conservative principles, preserved many liberal concepts. This influence manifested in

constitutional experiments in several European states, where efforts were made to establish

representative institutions and protect individual freedoms. The spread of liberal ideals laid

the groundwork for later democratic movements and constitutional developments.

However, alongside nationalism and liberalism, a third social contract emerged—

conservatism. Napoleon's rule brought stability to regions plagued by political upheaval, and

many conservative forces saw him as a bulwark against the radical ideas of the French
Revolution. The Congress of Vienna, convened in 1814-1815 to reorganize Europe after

Napoleon's defeat, exemplified this conservative turn. The great powers sought to restore

traditional monarchies and establish a balance of power to prevent future revolutionary

outbreaks. This conservative social contract aimed to uphold established social hierarchies,

limit political changes, and suppress revolutionary fervor.

In conclusion, the revolutions spurred by Napoleon across Europe engendered three distinct

social contracts: nationalism, liberalism, and conservatism. The rise of nationalism fostered a

sense of shared identity but also stirred ethno-cultural tensions. Liberal ideals influenced the

establishment of representative institutions and the protection of individual rights, laying the

foundation for democratic movements. Meanwhile, conservatism sought to restore traditional

order and stability in the aftermath of the Napoleonic era. These social contracts set the stage

for the evolving political landscapes of Europe, shaping the course of history in the 19th

century and beyond. Thank you for your attention teacher enjoy your weekend and passed the

Christmas with your family.

Jose conclusión:

Well, in this semester Learned and developed some aspects of my education such as critical

thinking and the comprehension of historical processes. I felt that this class was more than a

class about historical facts, it was more than that. The class of Liberalism encouraged me to

think more than I think about the topics we saw in class. The first topics were the social

contract and the ideas of Rousseau , Locke ,and Hobbes. This topic was the one that
introduced me to critical thinking. In addition to this. From this class I learned how to analyze

historical events not from just one point of view but analyzing the historical events from the

causes and antecedents. The way the class was, was a bit different from the way I am used

to learn but at the same time was a good way to develop the learning skills and learn in

different forms and in that form be a better learner.

German Unification was a very interesting topic, and more with the kind of analysis I applied

that I learned from this class. I really enjoyed learning about this historical process and the

reasons it happened, as well , I developing my investigation skills and my historical

comprehension about the effects of Napoleon and the industrial revolution on Central Europe.

When we got the topic I wanted the Polish Revolution but at the end I realized that the

German Unification was also a quite interesting topic to Investigate. The investigation

method was long, we firstly did the bibliographical cards, something that I never did once in

my life. Secondly, was to analyze the information and realize what we investigated . And

finally we organized the information into an essay explaining every detail we have.

This project taught me that a good investigation will make everything easier, and

consequently the organization of the information and the realization of the essay. The good

sources are an important part of the investigation because the good sources give quality

information and the quality information is an important part of the investigation. The

Investigation was not easy but at the same time was not difficult. Another part of the essay is

the drawing on the window, this drawing was easy to realize. In my opinion this project is an

after and then in the way I am going to make future investigations and projects about

historical events. I appreciate the things I learned from this class.

Arturo conclusión:

The class of liberalism and the expansion of the industrial society has been quite a surprise. I

have learned a lot of new things, concepts, and perspectives, but not only that. I have also

learned new ways to observe, consider, and interpret this new information. This class has

provided me with a lot of wisdom in many subjects. This class has taught me a lot about

understanding a subject through critical thinking and investigation rather than from straight

memorization. It was very interesting to see how people shared their ideas in order to come to

different conclusions about a subject and an idea. I think this class gave a great importance to

the acquisition of the ability to discuss ideas with other people. This is because it is one of the

most effective ways to obtain new knowledge. Another thing we learned is how to analyze an

event or situation considering different points of view and ideas of the time.

This assignment has taught a lot about investigation, politics, and about how to express ideas.

This project, even though it was about German unification, I think its deeper purpose is to

obtain the capability to recollect information and to clearly and thoughtfully express it. That

way it is possible to generate a more informed, reasonable observation about what happened.

Not an opinion. Because an opinion is based on a subjective view. The observation that we

are aiming for in this project is based on facts and logical conclusions. Another focus of this

project is to learn how to organize not only the information, but also the sources from which

it is obtained. The organization of sources is very important because as the work we make

becomes more relevant and has more impact, the credit we give to the people that made it

possible becomes more important as well. The proper organization of sources helps us avoid

many issues from the falsification of information to accusations of plagiarism.

Something that I found very interesting this semester was how historical events were related

one to another. I found it impressive how the effect of an idea in one place could cause

something completely different in another and yet still be clearly related. There are some

concepts I still have doubts about, for example how would the ideas we saw express in a

bigger environment, how would these ideas have interacted together, and what would have

their authors said about the contradictions they make to one another? These questions may

have not been answered in class, but what the class gave me was the ability to answer them

by myself.

Carlos conclusión:

When I was researching for this very activity I had learned a lot of information about the

subjects of both the german unification, the many people that were involved with the process,

and its close relationship to the ideas of liberalism, I saw the process of the event, how Otto

helped unify Germany, what events helped or delayed the process of unification , the reasons

for why germany decided to become independent and many other things. Most of what I

learned was about Otto von Bismark who was one of the most important political characters

in the process of unification which helped me understand the reasons for why Germany

decided on unifying. I also learned many things through the semester as a whole such as the

main ideas of liberalism and the many authors of liberalism such as Jean Jackes or Thomas

Hobbes, learned why these ideas were made popular, why people believe in liberalism to this

very day, the struggles that have been made to get to this point and how people fought for

these ideals. This helped me learn more about the ideas and philosophies of liberalism in

order to understand more about various important historical events in a different way than I

did before. The things that I didn't understand sometimes were that in some different cases

were how liberalism related to some of these events as sometimes these two things have felt
completely different and extremely unrelated which I have always found really weird since it

feels a lot like the teacher is just making up these connections with these events. Many of

these events feel very independent and separated from these liberal ideals and have felt like

these very events would have happened either way even without these ideas and philosophies

of liberalism. A problem that I had while researching for this project in particular was that I

felt that most sources that I was able to find on the internet only talked about the perspectives

of a few select people in the process. And while this helps us understand the way important

figures helped and were a part of this event it also gives us a very limited understanding

about the points of view from other people who participated in the event. There are very few

sources that give us insight about how the common folk felt about the unification of Germany

which I feel gives us a limited understanding about the process.

Renato conclusion:

During this semester in the liberalism class, I learned plenty of things, more than

actual facts or historical events, I learned how to analyze history from a certain point of view

or perspective, and I think this is the most valuable knowledge we got from this class. In this

case we analyzed the history from a liberal-republican democratic perspective, but with the

way the class was teached, and the topic of historical research we learned, I think I can apply

this kind of analysis with other contrary perspectives. But even if I liked the way the class

was, being this more about making questions and analyzing ideas instead of giving exact

answers, in some way, it was counterproductive because we used a certain perspective to

practice the analysis, so many of the exact answers we were looking for with those questions

and analysis were modified at a certain level by the point of view and ideological thinking

that liberalism is.

 Talking more about this activity I learned more about actual facts than about the

analysis perspective and ideology, even though it is related, I learned more about the process

of the Unification of Germany than if it was a normal topic in class, because we deepened our

understanding by researching for the topic. Some of the interesting things I learned were

about the important characters of the process like Otto von Bismarck that I did not know, but

I think the most interesting thing I learned was the relationship between the different

historical processes and figures. For example: if we go back to ancient times, there was a

dominant hegemony power of the imperialists countries, being the most powerful England

because of different facts, being one the Industrial Revolution for example; then a little bit in

the future, there was the French Revolution in which Napoleon rose to power and began the

golden age of the French empire. Once we know how the hegemony power was back in time,

if we go to the German Unification times, we can see the correlation between those facts,

because when the most powerful of the German States, Prussia, defeated one of the central

powers of Europe, France felt menaced an entered war with Prussia, which in order to defeat

France united with other German States that shared a culture by the German Confederation,

which at the same time was possible because of the hegemonic power that Napoleon had and

the liberal ideas he professed, so in result Germany united and became a powerhouse country

of Europe threatening the power of other powerhouse countries such as France and England,

that in the long term ended with a certain ideological structure that defined future events as

the First World War, which also ended in the second one, deciding the hegemonic power the

United States have nowadays.

In conclusion, I learned a lot in this class, and there were a lot of interesting topics

correlated with each other, making them interesting to learn and analyze and also important

to know about, so I hope I learn a lot more of these interesting historical relations and

historical processes next year.

Student’s Name Arturo Valenzuela Cordova

Team and Study Subject Team # 5 / German Unification

Source Title Otto Von Bismarck Speech Blood and Iron

Type of Title Primary source. Transcription of the

speech.

APA Reference Otto Von Bismark. (September 30, 1862).

Otto Von Bismarck Speech Blood and Iron.

Famous Speeches and Speech topics.

https://www.famous-speeches-and-speech-

topics.info/famous-short-speeches/otto-

von-bismarck-speech-blood-and-iron.htm

Variables for source analysis

Justification

Relevance. What is the importance of the This source states clearly the values of the

information obtained? How helps me to movement for German unification. It also

answer research questions? states that they were eager for

independence and a little of war. It also

shows how they did not want to be like

another country, but like themselves.

Reliability What is the veracity of this As this is a primary source, there is no

source? How can we trust its data? alteration of the message. Also, because it

is the direct transcription of the speech

there is no opinion of an external author

who is not an important character of the

German unification.

Limitations What information is unclear or The limitation of this source is that it does

doubtful? What data is missing to answer not explain when the speech was given,

my questions? where was it presented, or if there was an

event that triggered this speech. Overall, it

does not give any information about the

speech or the context.

Select one fragment of the source’s “Not by speeches and decisions of

information. One opinion or judgment from majorities will the greatest problems of the

the author (Copy a textual quote from the time be decided - that was the mistake of

paragraph and explain, “What part of this 1848-49 - but by iron and blood.” (Otto

makes think that this is the author’s Von Bismark, 1862). This is an opinion

opinion?” Why is that?) because this explains how he thinks the

problem will or should be solved.

Select one fragment of the source’s There is no factual information because the

information to identify one fact described speech is about the opinion of Otto Von

by the author. (Copy a textual quote and Bismark of the war and the roles, they all

explain “How can I be certain this is a fact? played.

Why is that”?)

Student’s Name Arturo Valenzuela Cordova

Team and Study Subject Team # 5/ German Unification

Source Title Issues Relevant to U.S. Foreign Diplomacy:

Unification of German States.

Type of Title Government website

APA Reference Office of the Historian. (n.d.). Issues

Relevant to U.S. Foreign Diplomacy:

Unification of German States. Office of the

Historian. https://history.state.gov

/countries/issues/

german-unification#:~:text=

German%20unification%20

was%20achieved%20by,

product%20of%20

Prussian%20royal%20policies.
 .

Variables for source analysis

Justification

Relevance. What is the importance of the This source provides a lot and highly

information obtained? How helps me to detailed information about the historical

answer research questions? context before, during, and after the

German unification. It also describes the

most important events and characters of the

German unification.

Reliability What is the veracity of this This source is reliable because it is

source? How can we trust its data? provided by an important and official

institution of the U.S. government.

Limitations What information is unclear or A lot of parts of the information are

doubtful? What data is missing to answer explained from the point of view and

my questions? revolve around the United States. It also

lacks the relationship between all these

historical events and the time's principles. It

does not explain how the values of concepts

like the Enlightenment and liberalism

affected these events.

Select one fragment of the source’s “By the late eighteenth century, the Holy
information. One opinion or judgment from Roman Empire was, as Voltaire remarked,

the author (Copy a textual quote from the “Neither holy, nor Roman, nor an

paragraph and explain, “What part of this Empire.”” This message is an opinion

makes think that this is the author’s because it is a subjective view of the state

opinion?” Why is that?) of the Holy Roman Empire. It is not an

opinion of the author but by including it is

acknowledging it. Thus, making it part of

his opinion.

Select one fragment of the source’s “The first effort at unifying the German

information to identify one fact described states came in the revolutionary year 1848”

by the author. (Copy a textual quote and During this year of national revolution you

explain “How can I be certain this is a fact? can corroborate that effort to unite Germany

Why is that”?) by checking documents, records, and news

of the time.

Student’s Name Jose Angel Lopez Garcia

Team and Study Subject Team 5 German Unification

Source Title Liberal Nationalism’s Role in the

 Development of the German Nation-State

Type of Source Academic Article

APA Reference M.Burke. (n.d.) Liberal Nationalism’s Role in

the Development of the German Nation-State.

Illinois University.

https://www.eiu.edu/historia/burke2.pdf

Variables for source analysis

Justification

Relevance. What is the importance of It talks about the liberalism and the unification

the information obtained? How helps me of Germany. Its information is very complete

to answer research questions? on the topic.

Reliability What is the veracity of this It is part of an academical document form the

source? How can we trust its data? Illinois University.

Limitations What information is unclear It is a very complete document about the

or doubtful? What data is missing to German Unification

answer my questions?
Select one fragment of the source’s ‘‘Germany does not look to Prussia’s

information. One opinion or judgement liberalism, but to her power; Bavaria,

from the author (Copy a textual quote of Württemberg, Baden may indulge their

the paragraph and explain, “what part of liberalism, but they cannot play the role of

this make think that this is the author’s Prussia; Prussia must gather her strength and

opinion?” Why is that?) preserve it for the favourable moment, which

has been missed several times…the great

questions of the time will not be decided by

speeches and majority resolutions-that was the

great mistake of 1848 and 1849- but by iron

and blood.’’

This part is Bismarck’s opinion about the way

was going to deliver unification

Select one fragment of source’s ‘’The German national sentiment began when

information to identify one fact Napoleon united the German principalities

described by the author. (Copy a textual from just under 400 to around 40 territorial

quote and explain “How can I be certain units, destroyed the fading Holy Roman

this is a fact? Why is that”?) Empire, and brought an idea of a similar

enemy to these newly united territories.’’

This part talks about the beginnings of the

national feelings in Germany and the

beginning of Germany for unification as a

nation.
Student’s Name Jose Angel Lopez Garcia

Team and Study Subject Team 5 German Unification

Source Title The German unification and freedom

movement (1800 - 1848)

Type of Source Webpage. Secondary source

APA Reference Wilhelm Weege/Üb.: Raymond Kerr über

WI 1. (n. d.). German Bundestag - the

German Unification and Freedom

Movement (1800 - 1848). German

Bundestag.

https://www.bundestag.de/en/parliament/hist

ory/parliamentarism/1800_1848/1800_1848-

200328

Variables for source analysis

Justification

Relevance. What is the importance of the Yes, it explains pretty well the given

information obtained? How helps me to information about the reasons why the

answer research questions? German Unification happened.

 I should be able to respond to why it

happened and when with the information that

this web pages has given me.

Also it says me the political and social

reason.

Reliability What is the veracity of this It is information obtained from a German

source? How can we trust its data? governmental webpage, because it is from

the German government is a reliable source.

Limitations What information is unclear or It does not talk about who participated in the

doubtful? What data is missing to answer unification of the German States.

my questions?

Select one fragment of the source’s There is just facts and there is not opinions,

information. One opinion or judgement only facts.

from the author (Copy a textual quote of the

paragraph and explain, “what part of this

make think that this is the author’s

opinion?” Why is that?)

Student’s Name Renato Beltrán Aguilar

Team and Study Subject 5/German Unification

Source Title Franco-German War

Type of Title Encyclopaedia – Secondary source

The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica.

APA Reference
(2023, July 12). Franco-German

War | History, causes, & results.

Encyclopedia Britannica.

https://www.britannica.com/event/

Franco-German-War

Variables for source analysis

Justification

Relevance. What is the importance The information is about the Franco-German

of the information obtained? How War, that is the reason why Prussia and other

helps me to answer research German States united in the first place; so, it can

questions? help me to answer about the causes of the

unification.

Reliability What is the veracity of The information come from the Britannica

this source? How can we trust its Encyclopaedia; this is an encyclopaedia of the

data? English government so we can be sure it’s

 reliable. Also is the fact that the information is

redacted in a very objective way.

Limitations What information is It is very clear and complete, I wouldn’t say

unclear or doubtful? What data is something is missing, but the only problem would

missing to answer my questions? be that even if it mentions all the information,

there are some concepts or historical processes

that as I said are only mentioned, it doesn’t

deepen in what those concepts or processes were.

Select one fragment of the source’s As I said the information is very objective, but if I

information. One opinion or must choose one part it would be:

judgement from the author (Copy a

“Bismarck edited William’s telegraphed
textual quote of the paragraph and
description of this interview, and on July 14 he
explain, “what part of this make think
published this provocative message (the Ems
that this is the author’s opinion?”
telegram), which accomplished his purposes of
Why is that?)
infuriating the French government and provoking

it into a declaration of war.”

Because the author says that the message was

provocative, but he couldn’t know if it was

provocative for the French army.

Select one fragment of source’s “Franco-German War, (July 19, 1870–May 10,

information to identify one fact 1871), war in which a coalition of German states

described by the author. (Copy a led by Prussia defeated France. The war marked

textual quote and explain “How can I the end of French hegemony in continental
be certain this is a fact? Why is Europe and resulted in the creation of a unified

that”?) Germany.”

I can be certain that this is a fact, because there

are lot of other sources from different contexts

that agree with it, also there is historical proofs of

it, such as documents, art representations and

even speeches of the time. Finally, the event had

consequences on next historical processes, and it

affected the Mundial hegemony we have today.

Student’s Name Renato Beltrán Aguilar

Team and Study Subject 5/German Unification

Source Title Seven Weeks’ War

Type of Title Encyclopaedia – Secondary source

The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica.

APA Reference
(2023, July 16). Seven Weeks’

War | Causes & Consequences of

1866 conflict. Encyclopedia

Britannica.

https://www.britannica.com/event

/Seven-Weeks-War
 Variables for source analysis

Justification

Relevance. What is the importance of The information is about the Austro-German

the information obtained? How helps War, that is the reason why the Franco-German

me to answer research questions? War started, because the victory of Prussia

threatened the French supremacy; and at the

same time, the Franco-German War, was the

reason of the unification of the German States.

So, it can help me to answer about the causes of

the unification.

Reliability What is the veracity of this The information come from the Britannica

source? How can we trust its data? Encyclopaedia; this is an encyclopaedia of the

English government so we can be sure it’s

reliable. Also is the fact that the information is

redacted in a very objective way.

Limitations What information is It is very complete, not very clear thought,

unclear or doubtful? What data is because it only mentions the concepts or

missing to answer my questions? historical processes/figures, but it doesn’t deepen

in the meaning of them.

Select one fragment of the source’s As I said the information is very objective, but if

information. One opinion or I must choose one part it would be:

judgement from the author (Copy a “The 1866 campaign was a carefully planned

textual quote of the paragraph and stage in the unification of Germany under

explain, “what part of this make think Prussia’s Hohenzollern dynasty, of which Otto

that this is the author’s opinion?” Why von Bismarck was the principal agent. The issue

is that?) was clear-cut: Prussia deliberately challenged

Austria for the leadership of the German

Confederation.”

Because the way he says the issue was clear-cut,

and that Prussia deliberately challenged Austria

seems as he was assuming that without

explanation, so it is an simplification previously

interpreted by the author.

Select one fragment of source’s “Seven Weeks’ War, (1866), war between

information to identify one fact Prussia on the one side and Austria, Bavaria,

described by the author. (Copy a Saxony, Hanover, and certain minor German

textual quote and explain “How can I states on the other. It ended in a Prussian victory,

be certain this is a fact? Why is that”?) which meant the exclusion of Austria from

Germany.”

I can be sure this is a fact because there are other

sources from different governments that states it,

also there is historical proofs of it, such as

documents, art representations and speeches.

Also, the event had consequences on different

 historical processes that are also stated by other

sources.

Student’s Carlos Benjamin Moreno Seguel

Name

Team and Team 5 German unification

Study Subject

Italian and German Unification: Crash Course European History #27

Source Title

Type of Video

Source

Italian and German

APA Crash Course. (2019, November 27).

Reference unification: crash course European History #27

[Video].

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSjDe9_jZk8
YouTube.

Variables for source analysis

Justification
Relevance. It helps us understand how the process of the unification was made by

letting us see the people (particularly

What is the

Bismark) helped the unification. How the people of Germany were

importance of
involved in the forming of the state,
the information

obtained? How

helps me to

answer

research

questions?

Crash course is a reliable source as they are a highly educational

Reliability
channel which has been used by many people including teachers

What is the to be able to better teach their students.

veracity of this

source? How can

we trust its data?

The names of certain people such as the king of Prussia and what
Limitations
happened in between the important events

What

information is

unclear or

doubtful? What
data is missing

to answer my

questions?

Select one “The thing about history is that it always feels certain because, you

fragment of the know it already happened, so when we in the present look at Bismark in

source’s the past and the

information.
unification of Germany It all feels extraordinarily strategic”.
One opinion or

judgement

from the

This is an opinion because this is his way of seeing history

author (Copy a

textual quote of

the paragraph

and explain,

“what part of

this make think

that this is the

author’s
opinion?” Why

is that?)

Bismark supported the Prussian king William the first. This is a

Select one
fact because he is stating who he supported
fragment of

source’s

information to

identify one fact

described by the

author. (Copy a

textual quote

and explain

“How can I be

certain this is a

fact? Why is

that”?)

Student’s Carlos Benjamin Moreno Seguel

Name

Team and Study Team 5bGerman Unification

Subject

Source Title Otto von Bismarck (1815–1898) / German Unification

Type of Source Video

Simple History. (2017, April Otto von Bismarck

APA Reference
17). (1815–

1898) / German Unification [Video].

YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mz9Cy0xUH0E

Variables for source analysis

Justification

Relevance. What It tells us of the life of one of the most important people that

participated in the historical event

is the importance of

the information

obtained? How

helps me to answer

research questions?

The source has made several videos on historical events

Reliability What is
and has experience covering these topics.
the veracity of this
source? How can

we trust its data?

Adds very few viewpoints from people who are not

Limitations What
Bismark
information is

unclear or

doubtful? What

data is missing to

answer my

questions?

Select one fragment The video is purely factual

of the source’s

information.

One opinion or

judgement from the

author (Copy a

textual quote of the

paragraph and

explain, “what part

of this make think

that
 this is the

author’s opinion?”

Why is that?)

“In 1847 he married Johanna Von Puch Comma” This is a fact

Select one fragment
because he is talking about the date of his wedding
of source’s

information to

identify one fact

described by the

author. (Copy a

textual quote and

explain “How can I

be certain this is a

fact?

Why is that”?)

Name of Carlos Julián Prandini

the

Student
Team and Team 5 German Unification

Subject

of Study

Title of German Unification and freedom movement (1800-1848)

the

source:

Author(s USA Goverment

) of the

source:

Type or Webpage

source:

Referenc Unification of Wilhelm Weege/Üb.: Raymond Kerr über WI 1. (n.d.).

e in German Bundestag - The German unification and freedom

APA: movement (1800 - 1848). German Bundestag.

https://www.bundestag.de/en/parliament/history/parliamentarism/1

800_1848/1800_1848-20032

Source Justification

analysis

variables

Relevanc The German empire was the center of the theme cause it’s a fundamental change

e: for people for his unification.

Reliabilit Yes, This has a relationship based on books founded or made by the survivors of

y: German unification. So the information is very concise even though the author has
 decided to use his words for the text.

Limitati Especific years.

ons:

Select a The late 18th century saw the emergence throughout Europe of political

part of movements dedicated to the pursuit of national unification on the basis of liberty.

your In Germany this development began relatively late.: Political conditions in the

Source Holy Roman Empire - known in Germany as the ‘Holy Roman Empire of the

to German Nation’ - were still entirely determined by the traditional structures of the

identify: authoritarian state that characterised the latter part of the age of absolutism.:

One Although the Ancien Régime had been criticised from several quarters in the

opinion German territories, it took a long time for any recognisable signs to appear of

of the developments that might seriously challenge the existing order.

author (In here the author wants to give the point of view of Germans. In the text you can

(textuall see how the author speaks in a very approving manner on behalf of German

y copy unification, meaning he has a point of view in favor of what they did.)

the

fragment

, and

justifyif

by

answerin

g:

"What

part of

this
informat

ion made

you

think

this was

an

Opinion

? How

so?)

Select a After the victory over Napoleon, the Congress of Vienna met from September

part of 1814 to June 1815 to redraw the political map of Europe. The negotiations were

your largely characterised by attempts to bring about the restoration of the pre-

Source revolutionary order. :While the aim in terms of foreign policy was to restore the

to balance of power among the states of Europe, the domestic aim was to re-establish

identify: the monarchic principle, preferably without concessions to liberal and democratic

One fact ideology.: Instead of the nation state to which many people aspired, the German

stated by princes created the German Confederation, comprising 37 principalities and four

the free cities.

author Here the author explain the principle monarchy and with the German

(textuall confederation.

y copy Reading a little of the real German unification you can recognize this was real.

the (The author talk about the negotiations of the Germans to be have the Unification.)

fragment

, and

justifyif
by

answerin

g: "How

did you

determin

e this

was a

Fact?

How so?)

Name of the Student Carlos Julián Prandini

Team and Subject of Study Team 5 German Unification

German Unification and freedom movement

Title of the source:
(1800-1848)

AcD Academy
Author(s) of the source:

Type or source: Webpage

Reference in APA: Unification of Germany. (2022, July 18).

Unacademy.

https://unacademy.com/content/ssc/study-

material/world-history/unification-of-
 germany/

Source analysis variables Justification

Relevance has a important and specific way in

Relevance:
how German Unification has been started.

Reliability: Yes, it’s a page from ª references

Limitations: Especific years.

The Prussians also developed more new roads and

railway networks for their trade that helped them

Select a part of your Source to to make a good relationship with other countries.

identify: One opinion of the Prussia was producing more raw materials such as

author (textually copy the coal, iron that also helped to boost their industrial

fragment, and justifyif by development, and resulted in a strong economic

answering: "What part of this position. It further strengthened their military as

information made you think well and they managed to build up a higher

this was an Opinion? How so?) position in front of Austria and Germany.

In here the author wants to give the point of view

in Prussia soldiers.

Select a part of your Source to Many important reasons caused the unification of

identify: One fact stated by the Germany. The four major reasons behind the

author (textually copy the unification of Germany are the role of Bismark,
 the strength of the Prussian economy, the

decline of Austria, and the military power of

Prussia. The economic strength of Prussia was

one of the most important reasons behind the

unification of Germany. The economic

condition of Prussia has been rising and

fragment, and justifyif by improving at that time which leads them to

answering: "How did you develop their trades and transport business as

determine this was a Fact? well. They also managed to get the best and a

How so?) better-modernized army.

Here the author explain the economy of

Austria,Prussia

Reading a little of the real German unification

you can recognize this was real.