The Influence of Prussian Nationalism in the German Empire

This section explores the influence of Prussian nationalism within the German Empire. When Germany was unified in 1871, the Kingdom of Prussia played a pivotal role in the process. As the largest, wealthiest, and most powerful state among the 25 that came together to form the new German Empire, Prussia's influence remained dominant long after unification. This influence was particularly felt in the military, political, and social spheres, with a strong Prussian nationalist presence shaping the course of the empire.

Prussian Dominance in the Army and Government

The Military

The Prussian army, renowned for its discipline and effectiveness, remained at the heart of the German military system. The army was commanded by Prussian officers, and its leadership reported directly to the Kaiser, who, notably, was also the King of Prussia. This connection ensured that Prussia retained control over Germany’s military strategies and decisions.

The Bundesrat

Prussia’s political influence was also significant within the federal system of government. Out of the 58 representatives in the Bundesrat (the Federal Council), 17 were from Prussia. This meant that Prussia had the power to veto any laws passed by the Bundestag (Federal Parliament), since only 14 votes were needed to block legislation. This gave Prussia a key role in shaping national policy.

Government and Diplomacy

Germany’s legal system, civil service, and diplomatic corps were heavily dominated by powerful Prussian elites, particularly the Junkers, a class of noble landowners. These individuals held significant sway over the administration of the empire, ensuring that Prussian interests were deeply embedded in the fabric of German governance.

The Role of the Junkers

The Junkers were a powerful group of conservative, wealthy landowners from Prussia, particularly from the north-eastern regions. Their influence extended beyond agriculture and land ownership, as they controlled the Prussian army and held key positions in both domestic and foreign policy.

Military Power

The Junkers had a near monopoly over the Prussian officer corps, and their leadership in the army helped to secure Prussia’s dominant position within the German Empire. The Prussian military was not just a national institution; it was a symbol of Junker authority and influence.

Support for the Monarchy

The Junkers were staunch supporters of the Hohenzollern dynasty, the ruling family of both Prussia and the German Empire. Their loyalty to the Kaiser helped to maintain the monarchy's power, as they were able to use their influence to support the royal family's decisions and policies.

Conservative Ideals

The Junkers promoted conservative values, often opposing the spread of liberal and socialist ideas. They believed in the preservation of traditional social hierarchies, which meant they were resistant to reforms that would challenge their privileged position.

Exclusion of Other Groups

The dominance of Prussia and the Junkers in the government left many other groups feeling marginalised and excluded from power:

Catholics

The predominantly Catholic population in southern and western Germany often found themselves at odds with the Prussian-dominated state. Prussia was largely Protestant, and Catholicism was viewed with suspicion by many in the ruling elite, leading to tensions between the two groups. The Kulturkampf (1871-1878), a policy aimed at reducing the influence of the Catholic Church, is a clear example of how Catholics were treated with disdain by the government.

Jews

Although Jews were granted legal equality in the new German Empire, they were still subjected to prejudice and discrimination. Despite contributing to the cultural and economic growth of Germany, they were often viewed with suspicion by conservative elements of society, particularly the Junkers.

Urban Workers

The industrialisation of Germany led to a growing working-class population, particularly in urban areas. However, this group had little political representation or influence. The government was largely unresponsive to the needs of urban workers, who faced poor working conditions, long hours, and low wages. Their lack of political power made it difficult for them to challenge the existing social order.

Prussian nationalism played a central role in the formation and early development of the German Empire. The strength of Prussian influence in the military, government, and elite society ensured that Prussia maintained its dominant position within the empire. However, this dominance came at the expense of other groups, such as Catholics, Jews, and urban workers, who found themselves excluded from meaningful political participation. The concentration of power in the hands of a small, conservative elite contributed to a system that was resistant to reform and less responsive to the needs of the broader population.