Kingdom of Württemberg and the making of Germany, 1815-1871

Autor*innen

• Bodie A. Ashton

Parameter

• Geschichte
• Weltgeschichte

Mehr zum Buch

This book explores the 1871 unification of Germany through the lens of the Kingdom of Württemberg, a 'forgotten state.' It challenges the traditional view that emphasizes the dominance of Austria and Prussia, highlighting instead the critical role of Württemberg and all 38 German states in the unification process. Each state, with its unique institutions and traditions, significantly influenced the formation of German unity. The narrative illustrates that Württemberg's government was proactive and controlled its policy-making throughout much of the 19th century, with a focus on the state's domestic developments. The book details Württemberg's active participation in the national question, showcasing how its governments and monarchs in Stuttgart strategically navigated the political landscape to maximize their advantages. It argues that the outcome of German unification was not predetermined but largely shaped by the Mittelstaaten's ambitions, with the Reichsgründung of January 1871 representing the culmination of extensive negotiations and diplomatic strategies, in which Württemberg played a crucial regional role. Utilizing a wealth of primary sources, including telegrams, newspaper articles, diary entries, letters, and government documents, this study is essential for scholars and students of 19th-century Germany.

• Sprache: Englisch
• Erscheinungsdatum: 2017
• Einband: Hardcover