“The Wars of Unification were the most significant factor in the establishment of the German Empire.” Discuss with reference to the period up to 1871.

Candidates are required to offer a considered and balanced review of the importance of the Wars of Unification in the establishment of the German Empire by 1871. The wars, including the Danish War of 1864, the Austro–Prussian War of 1866 and the Franco–Prussian War of 1870 to 1871, can be discussed collectively or separately. Other factors include, economic factors and Bismarck’s leadership. Prussia was the leading economic power in Germany and the Zollverein linked many states to Prussia, as such, they were more willing to accept the Empire. Bismarck’s political skills enabled him to manipulate events, presenting Prussia as a supporter of German nationalism in Denmark, neutralizing Austria and using the international situation in 1869 and 1870 to provoke France into war and to gain the support of the South German states. These events took place against a background of growing German nationalism, providing the climate within which the establishment of the German Empire could take place.