Discuss the causes of the 1848–1849 Revolutions in Germany and the reasons for the failure of those revolutions.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered review of the reasons why there were Revolutions in 1848 and 1849 in Germany and why they failed. The reasons varied from state to state, ranging from peasant unrest in the country, to artisan unrest in the cities and among the middle classes. There was also discontent with the remnants of feudalism and frustration regarding royal scandals, for example the elevation of the Irish stage performer “Lola Montez” to Countess of Landsfeld. Candidates may also consider the role of German nationalism in causing the revolutions. Regarding the issue of failure, reasons were also varied. While, in some cases, there was some element of political reform (the Frankfurt Parliament) or the granting of moderate constitutions, there was a lack of unity as to the type of constitution desired or the extent of German unity that was desired. Further, there was no clear leadership, a factor that reflected the differing causes of the revolutions.