Which was an early step toward German unification?
the proclamation of Wilhelm of Prussia as emperor of the German Empire in 1871
the defeat of Prussia to Denmark in the Second Schleswig War of 1864
the creation of the Zollverein, or customs union, among German states in 1818
the dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire after the Napoleonic Wars in 1806
The early step toward German unification was the creation of the Zollverein, or customs union, among German states in 1818.
To arrive at this answer, we need to examine the timeline of events that led to German unification. Let's break down each option:
- The proclamation of Wilhelm of Prussia as emperor of the German Empire in 1871 was the final step towards German unification and not an early step.
- The defeat of Prussia to Denmark in the Second Schleswig War of 1864 does not directly relate to German unification.
- The dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire after the Napoleonic Wars in 1806 was a significant event but did not directly lead to German unification.
Now, let's focus on the option mentioned earlier, the creation of the Zollverein, or customs union, among German states in 1818. This is the correct answer because it played a crucial role in the economic integration of German states. The Zollverein removed trade barriers and tariffs between member states, fostered economic cooperation, and laid the groundwork for political unity.
Therefore, the correct answer is: the creation of the Zollverein, or customs union, among German states in 1818.