German and Italian Unification Flashcards

Nationalism and Unification Concepts

• Nationalism: A strong love for one's country, often motivating individuals to make sacrifices for its interests.
• Liberalism: Promotes free market competition and a self-regulating economy; rooted in individual freedoms.
• Socialism: Advocates for collective ownership and control of production and distribution resources.

Key Figures in German Unification

• Otto Von Bismarck: Chancellor of Prussia and later Germany; key in orchestrating victories over Austria and France to unify German states.
• Wilhelm I: King of Prussia who became the first Kaiser of unified Germany; appointed Bismarck as Prime Minister.
• Wilhelm II: Ruler during WWI, known for his aggressive policies and desire to showcase Germany's power.

Major Wars Leading to Unification

• Austro-Prussian War: Conflict that expelled Austria from German affairs and helped unify northern German states under Prussian leadership.
• Franco-Prussian War: Conflict where Bismarck unified German states against a common enemy, resulting in German victory and annexation of Alsace-Lorraine.

Key Figures in Italian Unification

• Guiseppe Mazzini: Established a nationalist group in 1832; aimed for social justice and democracy, played a pivotal role in unifying Italy.
• Guiseppe Garibaldi: Leader of nationalist forces in southern Italy; known for his "Red Shirts" and ensuring southern unity with the north.
• Camillo di Cavour: Prime strategist behind Sardinia's unification efforts; instrumental in establishing a Northern Italian state.
• Victor Emmanuel II: King of Sardinia who became the first king of a united Italy in 1861; made Rome the capital later.

Cultural Movements

• Romanticism: Artistic and literary movement emphasizing nature and emotion over civilization.
• Realism: Philosophical belief that abstract concepts exist independently of their names; focused on representing everyday life.
• Impressionism: Artistic style capturing fleeting moments and feelings, primarily focusing on modern life.

Economic and Political Structures

• Zollverein: A customs union in Germany promoting economic cooperation and helping foster German nationalism.
• Blood and Iron: Bismarck's policy suggesting that unification would be achieved through military strength and industrial power.
• Kulturkampf: Bismarck's campaign to subordinate church allegiance to state loyalty.

Organizations and Entities

• North German Confederation: Established post-Austro-Prussian War; excluded Austria from German affairs and unified northern states under Prussia.
• Kaiser: Title meaning "German Emperor."

Important Concepts

• Laissez-faire: Economic principle advocating minimal governmental involvement in the economy.
• Hohenzollern: A prominent family dynasty from Brandenburg-Prussia linked to the establishment of the German Empire.