To what extent did the establishment of the Zollverein lead to the decline of Austria and the rise of Prussia?

The question requires that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the suggestion that the Zollverein led to the decline of Austria and rise of Prussia. To agree with the statement, candidates may refer to Prussian dominance in the Zollverein; this led to closer links with other German states and a reduction in Austrian influence. Prussia became the obvious leader for those nationalists wishing for a Kleindeutschland. To partially agree with the statement, candidates may argue that Austria was protectionist and unwilling to join the Zollverein, but also that internal problems within the empire, such as Italian and Hungarian nationalism, distracted Austria from the German Confederation. Candidates may state that Prussia was potentially stronger than Austria. Prussia had gained major resources because of the Vienna Settlement, whereas Austria had little industry and limited potential for industrial growth. It could also be argued that Prussia had been willing to accept Austrian influence in the Confederation, but that changed during the 1850s, as Bismarck became an advocate for Kleindeutschland. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and be supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the suggestion that the establishment of the Zollverein led to the decline of Austria and the rise of Prussia. There were some excellent responses to this question although relatively few responses were seen. Several candidates were able to argue successfully for and against the importance of the Zollverein in the decline of Austria and the rise of Prussia with detailed and relevant knowledge displayed in support of relevant arguments.