Because of the policy of Vienna [the Congress of Vienna, 1815], Germany is clearly too small for us both [Prussia and Austria]; as long as an honorable arrangement concerning the influence of each in Germany cannot be concluded and carried out, we will both plough the same disputed acre, and Austria will remain the only state to whom we can permanently lose or from whom we can permanently gain. . . .I wish only to express my conviction that, in the not too distant future, we shall have to fight for our existence against Austria and that it is not within our power to avoid that, since the course of events in Germany has no other solution.

Question

Because of the policy of Vienna [the Congress of Vienna, 1815], Germany is clearly too small for us both [Prussia and Austria]; as long as an honorable arrangement concerning the influence of each in Germany cannot be concluded and carried out, we will both plough the same disputed acre, and Austria will remain the only state to whom we can permanently lose or from whom we can permanently gain. . . .I wish only to express my conviction that, in the not too distant future, we shall have to fight for our existence against Austria and that it is not within our power to avoid that, since the course of events in Germany has no other solution.

1. What were the main goals of the Congress of Vienna?

2. According to Bismarck, what threat does Austria pose to Germany?

3. What does Bismarck believe will happen in the near future?

Answer 1

1. The main goals of the Congress of Vienna were to establish a balance of power in Europe, restore territorial boundaries that had been disrupted by the Napoleonic Wars, and maintain peace and stability in the region.

2. Bismarck believed that Austria posed a threat to Germany's existence, as they both sought to exert influence and control over German territories.

3. Bismarck believed that in the near future, Germany would have to fight for its existence against Austria, as the two powers could not peacefully coexist in the long term.

Answer 2

Does Bismarck indicate any sense of nationalism? If so, how?

Answer 3

Yes, Bismarck's statements about Germany in this context do indicate a sense of nationalism. By referring to Germany as "us" and expressing concern about the influence of Austria in German territories, Bismarck is showing a desire for German unity and independence from foreign influence. His statement suggests a belief in the idea of a unified German nation that should not be controlled or threatened by outside powers. Additionally, his acknowledgment of a potential future conflict with Austria implies a willingness to fight for the interests and sovereignty of Germany as a unified entity.