The unification of Germany

Before 1871, Germany was split into 39 independent states, with Prussia as the strongest, ruled by the Kaiser (Emperor) and Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, who aimed to unify Germany through militarism.
Many German states supported unification to protect against Russia and France, while Austria opposed it, fearing loss of influence.
Prussia fought wars, notably the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871), defeating France and acquiring Alsace-Lorraine, which intensified French animosity toward Germany.
Following victory, Prussia successfully unified Germany under the Prussian Kaiser, with Otto von Bismarck as Chancellor.

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