Why unification was achieved in GermanyUnification

By 1871, Prussia had established its military and economic superiority in central Europe. This, combined with the decline of Austrian influence, resulted in the unification of the German states.

Part ofHistoryGermany (1815-1939)

Unification

In the build up to war, the southern confederate German states voluntarily joined the Prussian-controlled Northern German Confederation. Germany was now unified.

Map of the German States in 1871
Figure caption,
Map of German states in 1871

The Treaty of Frankfurt

The Franco-Prussian war was ended on 10th May with the signing of the Treaty of Frankfurt.

  • the border between France and Germany was established
  • France lost the territory of Alsace-Lorraine on its border with Germany
  • it also had to pay Germany £200 million in compensation.
  • a new imperial constitution was set up within the now unified German states
  • Wilhelm I, was officially recognised as Emperor (Kaiser) of the German Empire