Germany in the 1800's

Essay by bethyxxHigh School, 11th gradeA-, December 2005

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The Zollverein was the most significant economic development within the german states between 1815 and 1848. This was the abolition of all customs and tarriffs within and between all German states. At this stage Prussia became the most economically important in germany and in 1828 raised its tarriffs on products therfore putting greater stress on smaller states. The Zellevein was important for both the unification of germany and Prussia's leadership as the surrounding states progressively became more reliant on prussia rather then Austria. This change brought on the rebellion of Austrian influence in german states. This ment King f withheld the most power within prussia and the german states however it would not be long until the people of Germany revolted from his system.

The year 1848 brought on the year of revolutions through out Fance and surrounding countries. As this trend reached Germany's shores many of her smaller states took the opportunity to promise new constitutions and political reform.

However, Prussian king, Federick William IV remained strongly oppossed to reform and sent troops to eradicate demonstrations. With he resignment of Metternich King F feared his grasp may loosen on the situation and controlling of demonstrations. He however later reinforced more power due to the failure of the middle class to withhold their proposals to form a national assembly. This occurred due to the middle class fear of blending with the working class and the possible outcomes regarding their influences . Therefore King F W IV was able to remain in complete control of the states power.

King F W IV's dominance over Germany strengthened after the revolution which there fore increased prussias influence on surrounding german states especially through means of the prussian parliment. A new constiution was brought in in 1850 which provided a two house...