200 years ago, on April 1, 1815, the first chancellor of the German Empire, Otto von Bismarck, was born. This German statesman entered as the founder of the German Empire, the "Iron Chancellor" and the actual head of foreign policy of one of the greatest European powers. Bismarck's policy made Germany the leading military and economic power in Western Europe.

Youth

Otto von Bismarck (Otto Eduard Leopold von Bismarck-Schönhausen) was born on April 1, 1815 at Schönhausen Castle in the province of Brandenburg. Bismarck was the fourth child and second son of a retired captain of a small estate nobleman (they were called junkers in Prussia) Ferdinand von Bismarck and his wife Wilhelmina, nee Mencken. The Bismarck family belonged to the ancient nobility, descended from the conquering knights of the Slavic lands on Labe-Elbe. The Bismarcks traced their lineage all the way back to the reign of Charlemagne. Schönhausen Manor has been in the hands of the Bismarck family since 1562. True, the Bismarck family could not boast of great wealth and did not belong to the largest landowners. Bismarcks have long served the rulers of Brandenburg in peace and military fields.

Bismarck inherited toughness, determination and willpower from his father. The Bismarck family was one of the three most self-confident Brandenburg families (Schulenburgs, Alvenslebens and Bismarcks), Friedrich Wilhelm I called them “bad, recalcitrant people” in his “Political Testament”. The mother was from a family of civil servants and belonged to the middle class. During this period, Germany was in the process of merging the old aristocracy and the new middle class. From Wilhelmina Bismarck received the liveliness of the mind of an educated bourgeois, a subtle and sensitive soul. This made Otto von Bismarck a very extraordinary person.

Otto von Bismarck spent his childhood in the Kniphof family estate near Naugard, in Pomerania. Therefore, Bismarck loved nature and retained a sense of connection with it all his life. He was educated at the private Plaman School, the Friedrich Wilhelm Gymnasium and the Zum Grauen Kloster Gymnasium in Berlin. Bismarck graduated from the last school at the age of 17 in 1832, having passed the matriculation exam. During this period, Otto was most interested in history. In addition, he was fond of reading foreign literature, studied French well.

Otto then entered the University of Göttingen, where he studied law. Study then attracted Otto little. He was a strong and energetic man, and gained fame as a reveler and a fighter. Otto participated in duels, in various tricks, visited pubs, dragged women and played cards for money. In 1833 Otto moved to the New Capital University in Berlin. During this period, Bismarck was mainly interested, in addition to "tricks", in international politics, and the area of ​​\u200b\u200bits of his interests went beyond the borders of Prussia and the German Confederation, within which the thinking of the vast majority of young nobles and students of that time was limited. At the same time, Bismarck had a high conceit, he saw himself as a great man. In 1834 he wrote to a friend: "I will become either the greatest scoundrel or the greatest reformer of Prussia."

However, good abilities allowed Bismarck to successfully complete his studies. Before exams, he attended tutors. In 1835 he received a diploma and began working at the Berlin Municipal Court. In 1837-1838. served as an official in Aachen and Potsdam. However, being an official quickly bored him. Bismarck decided to leave the civil service, which went against the will of his parents, and was the result of a desire for complete independence. Bismarck was generally distinguished by a craving for full will. The career of an official did not suit him. Otto said: "My pride requires me to command, and not to fulfill other people's orders."

Bismarck, 1836

Bismarck the landowner

From 1839, Bismarck was engaged in the arrangement of his estate Kniphof. During this period, Bismarck, like his father, decided to "live and die in the countryside". Bismarck studied accounting and agriculture on his own. He showed himself to be a skilled and practical landowner who knew well both the theory of agriculture and practice. The value of the Pomeranian estates increased by more than a third during the nine years that Bismarck ruled them. At the same time, three years fell on the agricultural crisis.

However, Bismarck could not be a simple, albeit intelligent, landowner. There was a strength in him that did not allow him to live in peace in the countryside. He continued to gamble, sometimes in the evening he lowered everything that he managed to accumulate after months of painstaking work. He led a campaign with bad people, drank, seduced the daughters of peasants. For violent temper he was nicknamed "mad Bismarck".

At the same time, Bismarck continued to educate himself, read the works of Hegel, Kant, Spinoza, David Friedrich Strauss and Feuerbach, and studied English literature. Byron and Shakespeare fascinated Bismarck more than Goethe. Otto was very interested in English politics. Intellectually, Bismarck was an order of magnitude superior to all the Junker landowners around him. In addition, Bismarck - the landowner participated in local government, was a deputy from the district, deputy landrat and a member of the Landtag of the province of Pomerania. Expanded the horizons of his knowledge through travels to England, France, Italy and Switzerland.

In 1843 Bismarck's life took a decisive turn. Bismarck made acquaintance with the Pomeranian Lutherans and met the bride of his friend Moritz von Blankenburg, Maria von Thadden. The girl was seriously ill and dying. The personality of this girl, her Christian convictions and fortitude during her illness struck Otto to the core. He became a believer. This made him a staunch supporter of the king and Prussia. Serving the king meant serving God for him.

In addition, there was a radical change in his personal life. Bismarck met Johanna von Puttkamer at Maria and asked for her hand in marriage. Marriage to Johanna soon became Bismarck's mainstay in life, until her death in 1894. The wedding took place in 1847. Johanna bore Otto two sons and a daughter: Herbert, Wilhelm and Maria. A selfless wife and caring mother contributed to Bismarck's political career.

Bismarck with his wife

"Mad Deputy"

In the same period, Bismarck enters politics. In 1847 he was appointed representative of the Ostelbe knighthood in the United Landtag. This event was the beginning of Otto's political career. His activities in the inter-regional body of estate representation, which mainly controlled the financing of the construction of the Ostbahn (Berlin-Konigsberg road), mainly consisted of delivering critical speeches directed against the liberals who were trying to form a real parliament. Among the conservatives, Bismarck enjoyed a reputation as an active defender of their interests, who was able, without really delving into substantive argumentation, to arrange a "firework", divert attention from the subject of the dispute and excite the minds.

Opposing the liberals, Otto von Bismarck helped organize various political movements and newspapers, including the New Prussian Newspaper. Otto became a member of the lower house of the Prussian Parliament in 1849 and of the Erfurt Parliament in 1850. Bismarck was then opposed to the nationalist aspirations of the German bourgeoisie. Otto von Bismarck saw in the revolution only "the greed of the have-nots." Bismarck considered his main task to be the need to point out the historical role of Prussia and the nobility as the main driving force of the monarchy, and the protection of the existing socio-political order. The political and social consequences of the 1848 revolution, which swept through much of Western Europe, had a profound effect on Bismarck and strengthened his monarchist views. In March 1848, Bismarck even planned to make a march on Berlin with his peasants in order to put an end to the revolution. Bismarck occupied the far right positions, being more radical even than the monarch.

During this revolutionary time, Bismarck acted as an ardent defender of the monarchy, Prussia and the Prussian Junkers. In 1850, Bismarck opposed a federation of German states (with or without the Austrian Empire), as he believed that this union would only strengthen the revolutionary forces. After that, King Frederick William IV, on the recommendation of the Adjutant General of the King Leopold von Gerlach (he was the leader of the ultra-right group surrounded by the monarch), appointed Bismarck as Prussian envoy to the German Confederation, in the Bundestag, which met in Frankfurt. At the same time, Bismarck also remained a member of the Prussian Landtag. The Prussian conservative debated the constitution with the liberals so vehemently that he even had a duel with one of their leaders, Georg von Vincke.

Thus, at the age of 36, Bismarck assumed the most important diplomatic post that the Prussian king could offer. After a short stay in Frankfurt, Bismarck realized that the further unification of Austria and Prussia within the framework of the German Confederation was no longer possible. The strategy of the Austrian chancellor Metternich, trying to turn Prussia into a junior partner of the Habsburg empire within the "Central Europe" led by Vienna, failed. The confrontation between Prussia and Austria in Germany during the revolution became clear. At the same time, Bismarck began to come to the conclusion that war with the Austrian Empire was inevitable. Only war can decide the future of Germany.

During the Eastern Crisis, even before the outbreak of the Crimean War, Bismarck, in a letter to Prime Minister Manteuffel, expressed the fear that the policy of Prussia, which oscillates between England and Russia, if it deviates towards Austria, an ally of England, could lead to war with Russia. “I would be careful,” Otto von Bismarck noted, “in search of protection from the storm, to moor our elegant and durable frigate to the old, worm-eaten warship of Austria.” He proposed to use this crisis wisely in the interests of Prussia, and not of England and Austria.

After the end of the Eastern (Crimean) War, Bismarck noted the collapse of the alliance based on the principles of conservatism of the three Eastern powers - Austria, Prussia and Russia. Bismarck saw that the gap between Russia and Austria would last for a long time and that Russia would seek an alliance with France. Prussia, in his opinion, had to avoid possible opposing alliances, and not allow Austria or England to involve her in an anti-Russian alliance. Bismarck increasingly took an anti-English position, expressing his distrust of the possibility of a productive alliance with England. Otto von Bismarck noted: "The security of England's island location makes it easier for her to abandon her continental ally and allows her to be abandoned to her fate, depending on the interests of British policy." Austria, if it becomes an ally of Prussia, will try to solve its problems at the expense of Berlin. In addition, Germany remained an area of ​​confrontation between Austria and Prussia. As Bismarck wrote: “According to the policy of Vienna, Germany is too small for the two of us ... we both cultivate the same arable land ...”. Bismarck confirmed his earlier conclusion that Prussia would have to fight against Austria.

As Bismarck improved his knowledge of diplomacy and the art of government, he moved further and further away from the ultra-conservatives. In 1855 and 1857 Bismarck paid "reconnaissance" visits to the French emperor Napoleon III and came to the conclusion that he was a less significant and dangerous politician than the Prussian conservatives believed. Bismarck broke with Gerlach's entourage. As the future "Iron Chancellor" said: "We must operate with realities, not fiction." Bismarck believed that Prussia needed a temporary alliance with France to neutralize Austria. According to Otto, Napoleon III de facto suppressed the revolution in France and became the legitimate ruler. The threat to other states with the help of the revolution is now "England's favorite pastime."

As a result, Bismarck was accused of betraying the principles of conservatism and Bonapartism. Bismarck answered his enemies that "... my ideal politician is impartiality, independence in decision-making from sympathies or antipathies to foreign states and their rulers." Bismarck saw that the stability in Europe was more threatened by England, with her parliamentarism and democratization, than by Bonapartism in France.

Political "study"

In 1858, the mentally ill brother of King Frederick William IV, Prince Wilhelm, became regent. As a result, Berlin's political course changed. The period of reaction ended and Wilhelm proclaimed a "New Era", defiantly appointing a liberal government. Bismarck's ability to influence Prussian policy declined sharply. Bismarck was recalled from the Frankfurt post and, as he himself bitterly noted, sent "to the cold on the Neva." Otto von Bismarck became an envoy in St. Petersburg.

Petersburg experience greatly helped Bismarck as the future Chancellor of Germany. Bismarck became close to the Russian Foreign Minister, Prince Gorchakov. Gorchakov would later assist Bismarck in isolating first Austria and then France, making Germany the leading power in Western Europe. In Petersburg, Bismarck will realize that Russia still holds key positions in Europe, despite the defeat in the Eastern War. Bismarck studied the balance of political forces in the environment of the king and in the metropolitan "light", and realized that the position in Europe gives Prussia an excellent chance, which falls very rarely. Prussia could unite Germany, becoming its political and military core.

Bismarck's activities in St. Petersburg were interrupted due to a serious illness. For about a year, Bismarck was treated in Germany. He finally broke with the extreme conservatives. In 1861 and 1862 Bismarck was twice introduced to Wilhelm as a candidate for the post of Minister of Foreign Affairs. Bismarck outlined his view on the possibility of unifying "non-Austrian Germany". However, Wilhelm did not dare to appoint Bismarck as a minister, as he made a demonic impression on him. As Bismarck himself wrote: "He found me more fanatical than I really was."

But at the insistence of the War Minister von Roon, who patronized Bismarck, the king nevertheless decided to send Bismarck "to study" in Paris and London. In 1862, Bismarck was sent as an envoy to Paris, but did not stay there long.

To be continued…

Otto Bismarck is one of the most famous politicians of the 19th century. He had a significant impact on political life in Europe, developed a security system. He played a key role in the unification of the German peoples into a single national state. He was awarded many prizes and titles. Subsequently, historians and politicians will evaluate differently who created

The biography of the chancellor is still between representatives of various political movements. In this article, we will get to know her better.

Otto von Bismarck: a short biography. Childhood

Otto was born on April 1, 1815 in Pomerania. His family members were cadets. These are the descendants of medieval knights who received land for serving the king. The Bismarcks had a small estate and held various military and civil positions in the Prussian nomenklatura. By the standards of the German nobility of the 19th century, the family had rather modest resources.

Young Otto was sent to the Plaman school, where the students were tempered with hard physical exercises. The mother was an ardent Catholic and wanted her son to be brought up in strict norms of conservatism. By adolescence, Otto transferred to the gymnasium. There he did not prove himself to be a diligent student. He could not boast of success in his studies. But at the same time he read a lot and was interested in politics and history. He studied the features of the political structure of Russia and France. I even learned French. At the age of 15, Bismarck decides to commit himself to politics. But the mother, who was the head of the family, insists on studying in Göttingen. Law and jurisprudence were chosen as the direction. Young Otto was to become a Prussian diplomat.

Bismarck's behavior in Hannover, where he was trained, is legendary. He did not want to study law, so he preferred a wild life to learning. Like all the elite youth, he frequented entertainment venues and made many friends among the nobles. It was at this time that the hot-tempered nature of the future chancellor manifested itself. He often gets into skirmishes and disputes, which he prefers to resolve by a duel. According to the memoirs of university friends, in just a few years of his stay in Göttingen, Otto participated in 27 duels. As a lifelong memory of a turbulent youth, he had a scar on his cheek after one of these competitions.

Leaving the University

A luxurious life side by side with the children of aristocrats and politicians was beyond the means of the relatively modest Bismarck family. And the constant participation in troubles caused problems with the law and the leadership of the university. So, without receiving a diploma, Otto left for Berlin, where he entered another university. which he graduated in a year. After that, he decided to follow his mother's advice and become a diplomat. Each figure at that time was personally approved by the Minister of Foreign Affairs. After studying the Bismarck case and learning about his problems with the law in Hanover, he denied the young graduate a job.

After the collapse of hopes to become a diplomat, Otto works in Anchen, where he deals with small organizational issues. According to the memoirs of Bismarck himself, the work did not require significant efforts from him, and he could devote himself to self-development and recreation. But even in a new place, the future chancellor has problems with the law, so a few years later he enlists in the army. The military career did not last long. A year later, Bismarck's mother dies, and he is forced to return to Pomerania, where their family estate is located.

In Pomerania, Otto faces a number of difficulties. This is a real test for him. Managing a large estate requires a lot of effort. So Bismarck has to give up his student habits. Thanks to successful work, he significantly raises the status of the estate and increases his income. From a serene young man, he turns into a respected cadet. Nevertheless, the quick-tempered character continues to remind of itself. Neighbors nicknamed Otto "mad".

A few years later, Bismarck's sister Malvina arrives from Berlin. He is very close to her because of their common interests and outlook on life. Around the same time, he becomes an ardent Lutheran and reads the Bible every day. The future Chancellor is engaged to Johanna Puttkamer.

The beginning of the political path

In the 40s of the 19th century, a tough struggle for power between liberals and conservatives began in Prussia. To relieve tension, Kaiser Friedrich Wilhelm convenes the Landtag. Elections are held in local administrations. Otto decides to go into politics and without much effort becomes a deputy. From the first days in the Landtag, Bismarck gained fame. Newspapers write about him as "a rabid junker from Pomerania". He's pretty harsh on liberals. Composes whole articles of devastating criticism of Georg Fincke.

His speeches are quite expressive and inspiring, so that Bismarck quickly becomes a significant figure in the camp of conservatives.

Opposition to liberals

At this time, a serious crisis is brewing in the country. A series of revolutions is taking place in neighboring states. The liberals inspired by it are actively engaged in propaganda among the working and poor German population. There are frequent strikes and strikes. Against this background, food prices are constantly rising, unemployment is growing. As a result, a social crisis leads to a revolution. It was organized by the patriots together with the liberals, demanding from the king the adoption of a new Constitution and the unification of all German lands into one national state. Bismarck was very frightened of this revolution, he sends a letter to the king asking him to entrust him with an army campaign against Berlin. But Friedrich makes concessions and partially agrees with the demand of the rebels. As a result, bloodshed was avoided, and the reforms were not as radical as in France or Austria.

In response to the victory of the liberals, a camarilla is created - an organization of conservative reactionaries. Bismarck immediately enters into it and conducts active propaganda through. By agreement with the king, a military coup takes place in 1848, and the rightists regain their lost positions. But Frederick is in no hurry to empower his new allies, and Bismarck is effectively removed from power.

Conflict with Austria

At this time, the German lands were greatly fragmented into large and small principalities, which in one way or another depended on Austria and Prussia. These two states waged a constant struggle for the right to be considered the unifying center of the German nation. By the end of the 40s, there was a serious conflict over the Principality of Erfurt. Relations deteriorated sharply, rumors spread about a possible mobilization. Bismarck takes an active part in resolving the conflict, and he manages to insist on the signing of agreements with Austria in Olmück, since, in his opinion, Prussia was unable to resolve the conflict by military means.

Bismarck believes that it is necessary to begin a long preparation for the destruction of Austrian dominance in the so-called German space.

For this, according to Otto, it is necessary to conclude an alliance with France and Russia. Therefore, with the beginning of the Crimean War, he actively campaigns not to enter into a conflict on the side of Austria. His efforts are bearing fruit: mobilization is not carried out, and the German states remain neutral. The king sees a future in the plans of the "mad junker" and sends him as an ambassador to France. After negotiations with Napoleon III, Bismarck is suddenly recalled from Paris and sent to Russia.

Otto in Russia

Contemporaries claim that the formation of the personality of the Iron Chancellor was greatly influenced by his stay in Russia, Otto Bismarck himself wrote about this. The biography of any diplomat includes a period of mastery. That is what Otto devoted himself to in St. Petersburg. In the capital, he spends a lot of time with Gorchakov, who was considered one of the most prominent diplomats of his time. Bismarck was impressed by the Russian state and traditions. He liked the policy pursued by the emperor, so he carefully studied Russian history. I even started learning Russian. A few years later he could already speak it fluently. "Language gives me the opportunity to understand the very way of thinking and logic of Russians," wrote Otto von Bismarck. The biography of the "mad" student and cadet brought notoriety to the diplomat and interfered with successful activities in many countries, but not in Russia. This is another reason why Otto liked our country.

In it, he saw an example for the development of the German state, since the Russians managed to unite the lands with an ethnically identical population, which was an old dream of the Germans. In addition to diplomatic contacts, Bismarck makes many personal connections.

But Bismarck's quotes about Russia cannot be called flattering: "Never trust Russians, for Russians don't even trust themselves"; "Russia is dangerous because of the meagerness of its needs."

Prime Minister

Gorchakov taught Otto the basics of an aggressive foreign policy, which was very necessary for Prussia. After the death of the king, the "mad junker" is sent to Paris as a diplomat. Before him is a serious task to prevent the restoration of the long-standing alliance of France and England. The new government in Paris, created after another revolution, was negative about the ardent conservative from Prussia.

But Bismarck managed to convince the French of the need for mutual cooperation with the Russian Empire and the German lands. The ambassador selected only trusted people for his team. Assistants selected candidates, then they were considered by Otto Bismarck himself. A short biography of the applicants was compiled by the secret police of the king.

Successful work in establishing international relations allowed Bismarck to become Prime Minister of Prussia. In this position, he won the true love of the people. Otto von Bismarck graced the front pages of German newspapers weekly. Politician quotes became popular far abroad. Such fame in the press is due to the Prime Minister's love for populist statements. For example, the words: "The great questions of the time are not decided by speeches and resolutions of the majority, but by iron and blood!" are still used on a par with similar statements of the rulers of ancient Rome. One of the most famous sayings of Otto von Bismarck: "Stupidity is a gift of God, but it should not be abused."

Territorial expansion of Prussia

Prussia has long set itself the goal of uniting all German lands into one state. For this, training was carried out not only in the foreign policy aspect, but also in the field of propaganda. The main rival in leadership and patronage over the German world was Austria. In 1866, relations with Denmark sharply escalated. Part of the kingdom was occupied by ethnic Germans. Under pressure from the nationalist part of the public, they began to demand the right to self-determination. At this time, Chancellor Otto Bismarck secured the full support of the king and received extended rights. The war with Denmark began. The Prussian troops occupied the territory of Holstein without any problems and divided it with Austria.

Because of these lands, a new conflict arose with a neighbor. The Habsburgs, who sat in Austria, were losing their positions in Europe after a series of revolutions and upheavals that overthrew the representatives of the dynasty in other countries. For 2 years after the Danish war, hostility between Austria and Prussia grew in the first trade blockades and political pressure began. But it soon became clear that a direct military clash could not be avoided. Both countries began to mobilize the population. Otto von Bismarck played a key role in the conflict. Briefly setting out his goals to the king, he immediately went to Italy to enlist her support. The Italians themselves also had claims to Austria, seeking to take possession of Venice. In 1866 the war began. The Prussian troops managed to quickly seize part of the territories and force the Habsburgs to sign a peace treaty on favorable terms.

Consolidation of lands

Now all the ways for the unification of the German lands were open. Prussia headed for the creation of a constitution for which Otto von Bismarck himself wrote. The chancellor's quotes about the unity of the German people gained popularity in the north of France. The growing influence of Prussia greatly worried the French. The Russian Empire also began to fearfully wait for what Otto von Bismarck would do, whose brief biography is described in the article. The history of Russian-Prussian relations during the reign of the Iron Chancellor is very revealing. The politician managed to assure Alexander II of his intention to cooperate with the Empire in the future.

But the French were not convinced of the same. As a result, another war began. A few years earlier, an army reform had been carried out in Prussia, as a result of which a regular army was created.

Military spending also increased. Thanks to this and the successful actions of the German generals, France suffered a number of major defeats. Napoleon III was captured. Paris was forced to make an agreement, losing a number of territories.

On the wave of triumph, the Second Reich is proclaimed, Wilhelm becomes emperor, and Otto Bismarck is his confidant. Quotes from Roman generals at the coronation gave the chancellor another nickname - "triumphant", since then he has often been depicted on a Roman chariot and with a wreath on his head.

Heritage

Constant wars and internal political squabbles seriously crippled the health of the politician. He went on vacation several times, but was forced to return due to a new crisis. Even after 65 years, he continued to take an active part in all the political processes of the country. Not a single meeting of the Landtag took place if Otto von Bismarck was not present. Interesting facts about the life of the chancellor are described below.

For 40 years in politics, he achieved tremendous success. Prussia expanded its territories and was able to seize superiority in the German space. Contacts were established with the Russian Empire and France. All these achievements would not have been possible without such a figure as Otto Bismarck. The photo of the chancellor in profile and in a combat helmet has become a kind of symbol of his uncompromisingly tough foreign and domestic policy.

Disputes around this person are still ongoing. But in Germany, everyone knows who Otto von Bismarck was - the iron chancellor. Why he was so nicknamed, there is no consensus. Either because of his quick temper, or because of his ruthlessness towards enemies. One way or another, he had a huge impact on world politics.

• Bismarck began his morning with exercise and prayer.
• During his stay in Russia, Otto learned to speak Russian.
• In St. Petersburg, Bismarck was invited to participate in royal fun. This is bear hunting in the woods. The German even managed to kill several animals. But during the next sortie, the detachment got lost, and the diplomat received severe frostbite on his legs. Doctors predicted amputation, but nothing happened.
• As a young man, Bismarck was an avid duelist. He took part in 27 duels and received a scar on his face in one of them.
• Otto von Bismarck was once asked how he chose his profession. He replied: "I was destined by nature to become a diplomat: I was born on the first of April."

Name: Otto Eduard Leopold von Bismarck-Schönhausen

State: Prussia

Field of activity: Politics

Greatest Achievement: Became chancellor of Prussia, united Germany.

Otto von Bismarck is one of the brightest personalities in the history of Germany. Prussia achieved absolute supremacy in Europe in many respects thanks to its policy of "iron and blood". Bismarck became a folk hero, founding father and first chancellor of the Second Reich, whose name was associated with social reforms and with the struggle against socialism and the Catholic Church. His era ended in 1890, but the memory of his outstanding achievements is still alive today.

Childhood and youth

Otto von Bismarck was born in 1815 in Schönhausen in the Brandenburg province. His mother belonged to an outstanding family of scientists, and his father was a hereditary nobleman with considerable influence in the political arena. It was he who became an example for his son, who after school began to study law in Göttingen and Berlin.

When Bismarck's mother dies in 1838, he interrupts his studies and returns to his native estate, which he manages with his brother, Bernhard. After the death of Bismarck Sr. in 1845, Otto becomes the full owner of Schönhausen. He actively uses and enjoys all the privileges of the life of a wealthy squire and marries a Catholic Johanna von Putkammer, with whom he has three children - Marie, Herbert and Wilhelm.

The beginning of the political path

In addition to managing the estate of his father, Bismarck begins to actively manifest himself in the political sphere. Coming from a deeply conservative family, he was an ardent conservative and supporter of the monarchy. It is not surprising that during the revolutionary events of 1848-49 in Germany, he fully supported Frederick William IV.

The king appreciated Bismarck's loyalty and in 1851 sent him to Frankfurt am Main, where he represented the interests of Prussia in the German Confederation until 1859.

An ardent supporter of the unification of Germany, Bismarck was extremely negative about any attempts by Austria to show his superiority (in particular, the intention to mobilize German troops during the Crimean War) and tried by all means to expand and strengthen the influence of Prussia.

Path to power

A huge role in the life and outlook of Bismarck was played by his service in St. Petersburg as a diplomat. During the three years spent in Russia (1859-1862), he managed to learn the language quite tolerably and become imbued with culture, which subsequently had a significant impact on his approach to relations with the Russian Empire.

In 1862, he returned to his homeland - the return is very opportune: discord reigns in the country between the branches of power. Soon the Kaiser appoints him first head of government, and then minister of foreign affairs.

According to Bismarck himself, Prussia and Austria had only one solution in the struggle for supremacy - "not with speeches, but with iron and blood." It is noteworthy that the authorship of the expression "The winner is always right" is also attributed to Bismarck. War and violence, apparently, for this person have always been the only and most certain ways to achieve the desired result.

Prussian victory

A flourishing national consciousness, dreams of a united and powerful nation fueled Bismarck in his desire for unification.

When a conflict broke out with Denmark over Schleswig and Holstein - Danish territories with ethnic Germans living there, Bismarck did not hesitate for a long time. By joining forces with Austria, the Prussian troops won, and in the course of short and effective battles, Schleswig fell into the possession of Prussia, and Holstein went to Austria. But, allies in the same war, Prussia and Austria still remained enemies in the battle for supremacy.

In 1866, she joined forces with Italy, which had plans for part of Austria - Venice. The Italian-Prussian alliance succeeded, and Austria lost, ceding the lands it claimed to Prussia and signing a peace treaty.

In 1867, the North German Confederation was formed, whose chancellor and author of the Constitution was Bismarck. It would seem that his dreams of a united state began to come true, but no - the main contender for the Spanish throne was Leopold, a prince from the house of Hohenzollern, and if Alexander II was not particularly worried about this, the French government was puzzled by this fact. To allow a German subject to occupy such an important office would be folly. Fuel to the fire was added by the fact that the lands in southern Germany were in the hands of France, which significantly hindered the unification. Bismarck needed a war, he needed blood and iron to finish what he started.

Having forged a telegram allegedly written by Wilhelm I to Napoleon III, Bismarck endowed it with an extremely derogatory content for the latter, and then publicly announces this in the newspapers. Of course, France immediately declares war, which it loses. As a result, Prussia annexes the southern lands of France. On January 18, 1871, the creation of the Second Reich was announced, Wilhelm I received the title of emperor, and Bismarck was awarded the title of prince and estate.

Kulturkampf

Huge territories and the growth of industry make Germany one of the strongest powers, but the rapid unification of such vast lands also united territories inhabited by people with very different cultures and religions, warring clans and communities. The so-called Kulturkampf began - Bismarck's struggle for the cultural unity of the Reich.

Since 1873, all religious organizations are controlled by the state, and marriage was henceforth recognized as legal only after registration in an official institution. The autonomy of the church has been abolished.

Change of power and resignation

Bismarck also authored a number of social reforms that significantly improved the lives of the working class and, for sure, could still serve the motherland, but in 1888 he takes the throne - ambitious and young, who did not want to fight for public attention with the famous chancellor. Bismarck resigns and receives the title of duke, but he is not going to leave politics at all - he has done too much, his memories are too fresh.

Trying to influence his own image in the popular mind and not lose influence, Bismarck publishes memoirs, and also regularly publishes critical essays and articles about members of the Reichstag and about Wilhelm II himself.

Last years

The death of his wife in 1894 greatly affected Bismarck's emotional and physical state, and his health began to deteriorate. The great and terrible, the most controversial politician of his time (and not only) died in 1898, leaving a deep mark on the history and hearts of people.

The "Iron Chancellor" was born in the family estate of Schönhausen on April 1, 1815 in a family of Prussian landowners. Representatives of this family from the middle of the 17th century served the rulers of the province of Brandenburg. The ancestors of the Bismarcks - conquering knights settled in these places during the reign. At the urging of his mother, Otto and his brother were sent to Berlin for education. For 10 years of study, he changed 3 gymnasiums, but did not find much interest in knowledge. He was attracted only by the history of politics, both modern and past. After graduating from high school, Otto entered the university. Law became his specialty.

As a student, Bismarck did not distinguish himself by any talents. He led a wild life, played cards and drank heavily. However, he completed his studies and received a position at the Berlin Municipal Court. For three years, Bismarck held the post of tax official in Aachen and Potsdam. There he joined the Jaeger Regiment. In 1838, Bismarck moved to Greifswald, where he continued to carry out military service and at the same time study animal breeding. After the death of his mother, Otto von Bismarck returns to his Pomeranian estates and begins to lead the life of an ordinary landowner. His character in those years was so explosive and uncontrollable that the neighbors considered him mad.

Deciding to marry, he was refused. The girl's mother did not want to give her daughter to such a groom. To calm down, he goes to travel. Having visited England and France, Bismarck became more restrained and made many friends. After the death of his father, he became the sole owner of the Pomeranian estates, during this period he married. Among his friends were the von Gerlach brothers, who had influence at court. Soon the "mad deputy" Bismarck began to play a prominent role in the Berlin Landtag. Since 1851, Otto von Bismarck has represented Prussia in the Allied Diet, which met in Frankfurt am Main. He continues to study diplomacy and successfully apply the acquired knowledge in practice.

In 1859, Bismarck was envoy to St. Petersburg. Three years later he was sent to France. Upon his return, he heads the Prussian government. Then he becomes Minister-President and Minister of Foreign Affairs. The policy pursued by him during these years was aimed at the unification of Germany and the rise of Prussia over all German lands. For the same purpose, he tried to provoke France to start a war. The cunning politician managed to get his way. On July 19, 1870, war was declared in Paris with the North German Confederation.

A month later, the fleeting was completed with the victory of Germany. After another 4 months, on behalf of Emperor Wilhelm I, Otto von Bismarck became the chancellor of the empire, which he himself created. Until 1890, the "Iron Chancellor" ruled the country. During this time, peace was signed with France, which was very humiliating for Paris, a struggle was waged against the dominance of the Catholic Church, and the persecution of socialists began. After the accession to the throne of Emperor Wilhelm II, Bismarck lost his influence and resigned, which was accepted on March 18, 1890. However, he did not retire completely. He continued to give his opinion on current politicians, and was a member of the Reichstag. Otto von Bismarck died in 1898 and is buried in his own estate. The inscription on the tombstone said that a devoted servant of the German Kaiser Wilhelm I was buried here.

Otto Eduard Leopold Karl-Wilhelm-Ferdinand Duke von Lauenburg Prince von Bismarck und Schönhausen(German Otto Eduard Leopold von Bismarck-Schönhausen ; April 1, 1815 - July 30, 1898) - prince, politician, statesman, the first chancellor of the German Empire (Second Reich), nicknamed the "Iron Chancellor". He had the honorary rank (peacetime) of the Prussian Colonel General with the rank of Field Marshal (March 20, 1890).

As Reich Chancellor and Prussian Minister-President, he had a significant influence on the politics of the created Reich until his resignation in the city. In foreign policy, Bismarck adhered to the principle of the balance of power (or European balance, see below). Bismarck's system of alliances)

In domestic politics, the time of his reign from 1999 can be divided into two phases. He first formed an alliance with moderate liberals. Numerous internal reforms took place during this period, such as the introduction of civil marriage, which was used by Bismarck to weaken the influence of the Catholic Church (see below). Kulturkampf). Beginning in the late 1870s, Bismarck separated from the liberals. During this phase, he resorts to a policy of protectionism and state intervention in the economy. In the 1880s, an anti-socialist law was introduced. Disagreements with the then Kaiser Wilhelm II led to Bismarck's resignation.

In later years, Bismarck played a prominent political role, criticizing his successors. Thanks to the popularity of his memoirs, Bismarck managed to influence the formation of his own image in the public mind for a long time.

By the middle of the 20th century, an unconditionally positive assessment of the role of Bismarck as a politician responsible for the unification of the German principalities into a single national state dominated in German historical literature, which partially satisfied national interests. After his death, numerous monuments were erected in his honor as a symbol of strong personal power. He created a new nation and implemented progressive welfare systems. Bismarck, being loyal to the king, strengthened the state with a strong, well-trained bureaucracy. After the Second World War, critical voices became louder, accusing Bismarck, in particular, of curtailing democracy in Germany. More attention was paid to the shortcomings of his policies, and the activities were considered in the current context.

Biography

Origin

Otto von Bismarck was born on April 1, 1815 into a family of small estate nobles in the Brandenburg province (now Saxony-Anhalt). All generations of the Bismarck family served the rulers in the peaceful and military fields, but did not show themselves in anything special. Simply put, the Bismarcks were Junkers - the descendants of the conquering knights who founded settlements in the lands east of the Elbe River. The Bismarcks could not boast of extensive landholdings, wealth or aristocratic luxury, but were considered noble.

Youth

iron and blood

The regent under the incapacitated King Frederick William IV - Prince Wilhelm, who was closely associated with the army, was extremely dissatisfied with the existence of the Landwehr - the territorial army, which played a decisive role in the fight against Napoleon and maintained liberal sentiments. Moreover, the Landwehr, relatively independent of the government, proved ineffective in putting down the 1848 revolution. Therefore, he supported the Minister of War of Prussia, Roon, in developing a military reform that involved the creation of a regular army with an extended service life of up to 3 years in the infantry and four years in the cavalry. Military spending was supposed to increase by 25%. This met with resistance and the king dissolved the liberal government, replacing it with a reactionary administration. But again the budget was not approved.

At this time, European trade was actively developing, in which Prussia played an important role with its intensively developing industry, an obstacle to which was Austria, which practiced a position of protectionism. To inflict moral damage on her, Prussia recognized the legitimacy of the Italian king Victor Emmanuel, who came to power in the wake of the revolution against the Habsburgs.

Annexation of Schleswig and Holstein

Bismarck is a triumph.

Creation of the North German Confederation

Fight against Catholic opposition

Bismarck and Lasker in Parliament

The unification of Germany led to the fact that in one state there were communities that were once fiercely conflicting with each other. One of the most important problems facing the newly created empire was the question of interaction between the state and the Catholic Church. On this ground began Kulturkampf- Bismarck's struggle for the cultural unification of Germany.

Bismarck and Windthorst

Bismarck went to meet the liberals in order to ensure their support for his course, agreed with the proposed changes in civil and criminal legislation and ensuring freedom of speech, which did not always correspond to his desire. However, all this led to the strengthening of the influence of centrists and conservatives, who began to consider the offensive against the church as a manifestation of godless liberalism. As a result, Bismarck himself began to view his campaign as a serious mistake.

The long struggle with Arnim and the implacable resistance of the center party of Windthorst could not but affect the health and character of the chancellor.

Consolidation of peace in Europe

Introductory quotation to the exposition of the Bavarian War Museum. Ingolstadt

We do not need war, we belong to what the old prince Metternich had in mind, namely, to a state completely satisfied with its position, which, if necessary, can defend itself. And besides, even if it becomes necessary - do not forget about our peace initiatives. And I declare this not only in the Reichstag, but especially to the whole world, that this has been the policy of Kaiser Germany for the past sixteen years.

Soon after the creation of the Second Reich, Bismarck became convinced that Germany was not in a position to dominate Europe. He failed to realize the idea of ​​uniting all Germans in a single state that had existed for hundreds of years. Austria prevented this, striving for the same, but only on the condition of the dominant role in this state of the Habsburg dynasty.

Fearing French revenge in the future, Bismarck sought rapprochement with Russia. On March 13, 1871, together with representatives of Russia and other countries, he signed the London Convention, which abolished Russia's ban on having a navy in the Black Sea. In 1872, Bismarck and Gorchakov (with whom Bismarck had a personal relationship, like a talented student with his teacher), organized a meeting in Berlin of three emperors - German, Austrian and Russian. They came to an agreement to jointly confront the revolutionary danger. After that, Bismarck had a conflict with the German ambassador to France, Arnim, who, like Bismarck, belonged to the conservative wing, which alienated the chancellor from the conservative junkers. The result of this confrontation was the arrest of Arnim under the pretext of improper handling of documents.

Bismarck, given the central position of Germany in Europe and the real danger associated with this to be involved in a war on two fronts, created a formula that he followed throughout his reign: "A strong Germany strives to live peacefully and develop peacefully." To this end, she must have a strong army in order to "not be attacked by anyone who draws her sword."

During his entire service life, Bismarck experienced the "nightmare of coalitions" (le cauchemar des coalitions), and, figuratively speaking, unsuccessfully tried, juggling, to keep five balls in the air.

Now Bismarck could hope that England would concentrate on the problem of Egypt, which arose after France bought up shares in the Suez Canal, and Russia became involved in solving the Black Sea problems, and therefore the danger of creating an anti-German coalition was significantly reduced. Moreover, the rivalry between Austria and Russia in the Balkans meant that Russia needed German support. Thus, a situation was created where all significant forces in Europe, with the exception of France, would not be able to create dangerous coalitions, being involved in mutual rivalry.

At the same time, this created for Russia the need to avoid an aggravation of the international situation, and she was forced to lose some of the advantages of her victory at the London talks, which found their expression at the congress that opened on June 13 in Berlin. The Berlin Congress was created to consider the results of the Russian-Turkish war, which was chaired by Bismarck. The Congress turned out to be surprisingly effective, although Bismarck had to constantly maneuver between representatives of all the great powers to do this. On July 13, 1878, Bismarck signed the Treaty of Berlin with representatives of the great powers, establishing new frontiers in Europe. Then many of the territories that had passed to Russia were returned to Turkey, Bosnia and Herzegovina were transferred to Austria, the Turkish sultan, filled with gratitude, gave Cyprus to Britain.

In the Russian press, after this, an acute pan-Slavist campaign against Germany began. The nightmare of the coalition reappeared. On the verge of panic, Bismarck offered Austria to conclude a customs agreement, and when she refused, even a mutual non-aggression pact. Emperor Wilhelm I was frightened by the end of the former pro-Russian orientation of German foreign policy and warned Bismarck that things were moving towards an alliance between tsarist Russia and France, which had become a republic again. At the same time, he pointed out the unreliability of Austria as an ally, which could not deal with its internal problems, as well as the uncertainty of Britain's position.

Bismarck tried to justify his line by pointing out that his initiatives were taken in the interests of Russia as well. On October 7, he signed a “Dual Alliance” with Austria, which pushed Russia into an alliance with France. This was Bismarck's fatal mistake, destroying the close relations between Russia and Germany that had been established since the German War of Independence. A fierce tariff struggle began between Russia and Germany. Since that time, the General Staffs of both countries began to develop plans for a preventive war against each other.

According to this treaty, Austria and Germany were to jointly repel the attack of Russia. If Germany was attacked by France, Austria pledged to remain neutral. It quickly became clear to Bismarck that this defensive alliance would immediately turn into offensive action, especially if Austria was on the brink of defeat.

However, Bismarck still managed on June 18 to confirm the agreement with Russia, according to which the latter pledged to remain neutral in the event of a Franco-German war. But nothing was said about the relationship in the case of the Austro-Russian conflict. However, Bismarck showed understanding of Russia's claims to the Bosphorus and the Dardanelles in the hope that this would lead to conflict with Britain. Bismarck's supporters saw the move as further proof of Bismarck's diplomatic genius. However, the future showed that this was only a temporary measure in an attempt to avoid an impending international crisis.

Bismarck proceeded from his belief that stability in Europe could be achieved only if England joined the Mutual Treaty. In 1889, he approached Lord Salsbury with a proposal to conclude a military alliance, but the lord categorically refused. Although Britain was interested in resolving the colonial problem with Germany, she did not want to bind herself with any obligations in central Europe, where the potentially hostile states of France and Russia were located. Bismarck's hopes that the contradictions between England and Russia would contribute to its rapprochement with the countries of the "Mutual Treaty" were not confirmed.

Danger on the left

"While it's stormy - I'm at the helm"

To the 60th anniversary of the Chancellor

In addition to the external danger, the internal danger, namely the socialist movement in the industrial regions, became ever stronger. To combat it, Bismarck tried to enact new repressive legislation. Bismarck increasingly spoke of the "red threat", especially after the assassination attempt on the emperor.

Colonial politics

At certain points he showed a commitment to the colonial issue, but this was a political move, for example, during the election campaign of 1884, when he was accused of lack of patriotism. In addition, this was done in order to reduce the chances of the heir prince Frederick with his leftist views and far-reaching pro-English orientation. In addition, he understood that the key problem for the country's security was normal relations with England. In 1890, he exchanged Zanzibar from England for the island of Helgoland, which much later became the outpost of the German fleet in the oceans.

Otto von Bismarck managed to draw his son Herbert into the colonial affairs, who was involved in settling issues with England. But there were also enough problems with his son - he inherited only bad traits from his father and drank.

Resignation

Bismarck tried not only to influence the formation of his image in the eyes of his descendants, but also continued to interfere in contemporary politics, in particular, he undertook active campaigns in the press. Bismarck's attacks were most often subjected to his successor - Caprivi. Indirectly, he criticized the emperor, whom he could not forgive his resignation. In the summer, Mr. Bismarck took part in the elections to the Reichstag, however, he never took part in the work of his 19th constituency in Hanover, never used his mandate, and 1893. resigned his powers

The press campaign was successful. Public opinion leaned in favor of Bismarck, especially after Wilhelm II began to openly attack him. The authority of the new Reich Chancellor, Caprivi, was especially hard hit when he tried to prevent Bismarck from meeting with the Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph. The trip to Vienna turned into a triumph for Bismarck, who declared that he had no obligations to the German authorities: "all bridges are burned"

Wilhelm II was forced to agree to reconciliation. Several meetings with Bismarck in the city went well, but did not lead to a real détente in relations. How unpopular Bismarck was in the Reichstag was shown by the fierce fighting over the approval of congratulations on the occasion of his 80th birthday. Because of the publication in 1896. With a top-secret reinsurance treaty, he attracted the attention of the German and foreign press.

Memory

Historiography

In the more than 150 years since the birth of Bismarck, many different interpretations of his personal and political activities have arisen, some of them are mutually opposed. Until the end of World War II, German-language literature was dominated by writers whose point of view was influenced by their own political and religious outlook. Historian Karina Urbach noted in 1994: “His biography was taught to at least six generations, and it is safe to say that each successive generation studied a different Bismarck. No other German politician has been used and distorted as much as he.

Empire times

Disputes around the figure of Bismarck existed even during his lifetime. Already in the first biographical editions, sometimes multi-volume, Bismarck's complexity and ambiguity were emphasized. Sociologist Max Weber critically assessed the role of Bismarck in the process of German unification: “The work of his life was not only in the external, but also in the internal unity of the nation, but each of us knows that this was not achieved. This cannot be achieved by his methods. Theodor Fontane painted a literary portrait in the last years of his life in which he compared Bismarck to Wallenstein. Bismarck's assessment from Fontane's point of view differs significantly from the assessment of most contemporaries: "he is a great genius, but a small man."

The negative assessment of Bismarck's role did not find support for a long time, thanks in part to his memoirs. They have become an almost inexhaustible source of quotes for his fans. For decades, the book underpinned the idea of ​​Bismarck by patriotic citizens. At the same time, it weakened the critical view of the founder of the empire. During his lifetime, Bismarck had a personal impact on his image in history as he controlled access to documents and sometimes corrected manuscripts. After the chancellor's death, his son, Herbert von Bismarck, assumed control of the formation of the image in history.

Professional historical science could not get rid of the influence of Bismarck's role in the unification of the German lands and joined in the idealization of his image. Heinrich von Treitschke changed his attitude towards Bismarck from being critical to becoming a dedicated admirer. The foundation of the German Empire he called the most striking example of heroism in the history of Germany. Treitschke and other representatives of the Little German-Borussian school of history were fascinated by Bismarck's strength of character. Bismarck's biographer Erich Marx wrote in 1906: "In fact, I must admit: living in those days was such a great experience that everything that has to do with it is of value to history." However, Marx, along with other historians of Wilhelm's time such as Heinrich von Siebel, noted the inconsistency of Bismarck's role in comparison to the achievements of the Hohenzollerns. So, in 1914. in school textbooks, Bismarck, Wilhelm I, was not called the founder of the German Empire.

The decisive contribution to the exaltation of Bismarck's role in history was made in the First World War. On the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the birth of Bismarck in 1915. articles were published that did not even hide their propaganda purpose. In a patriotic impulse, historians noted the duties of German soldiers to defend the unity and greatness of Germany obtained by Bismarck from foreign invaders, and at the same time, they were silent about Bismarck's numerous warnings about the inadmissibility of such a war in the middle of Europe. Bismarck scholars such as Erich Marx, Mack Lenz and Horst Kohl portrayed Bismarck as the vehicle for the German warlike spirit.

Weimar Republic and Third Reich

The defeat of Germany in the war and the creation of the Weimar Republic did not change the idealistic image of Bismarck, as the elite of historians remained loyal to the monarch. In such a helpless and chaotic state, Bismarck was like a guide, a father, a genius to look up to in order to end the "Versailles humiliation." If any criticism of his role in history was expressed, then it concerned the Little German way of solving the German question, and not the military or imposed unification of the state. Traditionalism protected from the emergence of innovative biographies of Bismarck. The publication of further documents in the 1920s once again helped to emphasize Bismarck's diplomatic skill. The most popular biography of Bismarck at that time was written by Mr. Emil Ludwig, which presented a critical psychological analysis, according to which Bismarck was portrayed as a Faustian hero in a historical drama of the 19th century.

During the Nazi period, the historical lineage between Bismarck and Adolf Hitler was more often portrayed to secure the Third Reich's leading role in the German unity movement. Erich Marx, a pioneer of Bismarck research, emphasized these ideologized historical interpretations. Bismarck was also portrayed in Great Britain as the predecessor of Hitler, who stood at the beginning of Germany's special path. As the Second World War progressed, Bismarck's weight in propaganda decreased somewhat; his warning about the inadmissibility of war with Russia was not mentioned since. But conservative representatives of the resistance movement saw Bismarck as their guide.

An important critical work was published by the German jurist in exile Erich Eyck, who wrote a biography of Bismarck in three volumes. He criticized Bismarck for being cynical about democratic, liberal, and humanist values ​​and blamed him for the destruction of democracy in Germany. The system of unions was very cleverly built, but, being an artificial construction, was doomed to disintegration from birth. However, Eick could not resist admiring the figure of Bismarck: “but no one, wherever he was, can not agree that he [Bismarck] was the main figure of his time ... No one can help but admire the strength of the charm of this man, who is always curious and important."

Post-war period until 1990

After World War II, influential German historians, notably Hans Rothfelds and Theodor Schieder, took a varied but positive view of Bismarck. Friedrich Meinecke, a former admirer of Bismarck, argued in 1946. in the book "The German catastrophe" (German. Die deutsche Katastrophe) that the painful defeat of the German nation-state shattered all praise for Bismarck for the foreseeable future.

Briton Alan J. P. Taylor published in 1955. psychological, and not least because of this limited, biography of Bismarck, in which he tried to show the struggle between paternal and maternal principles in the soul of his hero. Taylor positively described Bismarck's instinctive struggle for order in Europe against the aggressive foreign policy of the Wilhelmian era. The first post-war biography of Bismarck, written by Wilhelm Momsen, differed from the writings of its predecessors in a style that claims to be sober and objective. Momsen emphasized Bismarck's political flexibility, and believed that his failures could not overshadow the successes of state activity.

In the late 1970s, a movement of social historians against biographical research emerged. Since then, biographies of Bismarck began to appear, in which he is depicted either in extremely light or dark colors. A common feature of most of the new biographies of Bismarck is an attempt to synthesize Bismarck's influence and describe his position in the social structures and political processes of the time.

American historian Otto Pflanze released between and gg. a multi-volume biography of Bismarck, in which, unlike others, Bismarck's personality, studied by means of psychoanalysis, was brought to the fore. Bismarck was criticized by Pflanze for his treatment of political parties and subordination of the constitution to his own ends, which set a negative precedent to follow. According to Pflanze, Bismarck's image as the unifier of the German nation comes from Bismarck himself, who from the beginning only sought to increase Prussian power over the core states of Europe.

Phrases attributed to Bismarck

• By Providence itself I was destined to be a diplomat: after all, I was even born on the day of the first of April.
• Revolutions are conceived by geniuses, carried out by fanatics, and scoundrels use their results.
• People never lie so much as after a hunt, during a war and before an election.
• Do not expect that once you take advantage of Russia's weakness, you will receive dividends forever. Russians always come for their money. And when they come - do not rely on the Jesuit agreements you signed, supposedly justifying you. They are not worth the paper they are written on. Therefore, it is worth either playing fair with the Russians, or not playing at all.
• The Russians take a long time to harness, but they go fast.
• Congratulate me - the comedy is over ... (during the departure from the post of chancellor).
• He, as always, with a prima donna's smile on his lips and with an ice compress on his heart (about the Chancellor of the Russian Empire, Gorchakov).
• You don't know this audience! Finally, the Jew Rothschild ... this, I tell you, is an incomparable beast. For the sake of speculation on the stock exchange, he is ready to bury the whole of Europe, but is it ... me?
• There will always be someone who doesn't like what you do. This is fine. Everyone in a row likes only kittens.
• Before his death, having regained consciousness for a short while, he said: “I am dying, but from the point of view of the interests of the state, this is impossible!”
• The war between Germany and Russia is the greatest stupidity. That is why it will definitely happen.
• Learn like you're going to live forever, live like you're going to die tomorrow.
• Even the most favorable outcome of the war will never lead to the disintegration of the main force of Russia, which is based on millions of Russians ... These latter, even if they are dissected by international treatises, just as quickly reunite with each other, like particles of a cut piece of mercury ...
• The great questions of the time are not decided by the decisions of the majority, but only by iron and blood!
• Woe to that statesman who does not bother to find a basis for war, which will still retain its significance after the war.
• Even a victorious war is an evil that must be prevented by the wisdom of the nations.
• Revolutions are prepared by geniuses, made by romantics, and crooks use its fruits.
• Russia is dangerous because of the meagerness of its needs.
• A preventive war against Russia is suicidal for fear of death.

Gallery

see also

Notes

1. Richard Carstensen / Bismarck anekdotisches. Muenchen: Bechtle Verlag. 1981. ISBN 3-7628-0406-0
2. Martin Kitchen. The Cambridge Illustrated History of Germany:-Cambridge University Press 1996 ISBN 0-521-45341-0
3. Nachum T. Gidal: Die Juden in Deutschland von der Römerzeit bis zur Weimarer Republik. Gütersloh: Bertelsmann Lexikon Verlag 1988. ISBN 3-89508-540-5
4. Showing the significant role of Bismarck in European history, the author of the cartoon is mistaken about Russia, which in those years pursued a policy independent of Germany.
5. "Aber das kann man nicht von mir verlangen, dass ich, nachdem ich vierzig Jahre lang Politik getrieben, plötzlich mich gar nicht mehr damit abgeben soll." Zit. nach Ullrich: Bismarck. S. 122.
6. Ullrich: Bismarck. S. 7 f.
7. Alfred Vagts: Diederich Hahn - Ein Politikerleben. In: Jahrbuch der Manner vom Morgenstern. Band 46, Bremerhaven 1965, S. 161 f.
8. "Alle Brücken sind abgebrochen." Volker Ullrich: Otto von Bismarck. Rowohlt, Reinbek bei Hamburg 1998, ISBN 3-499-50602-5, S. 124.
9. Ullrich: Bismarck. S. 122-128.
10. Reinhard Pozorny(Hg) Deutsches National-Lexikon-DSZ-Verlag. 1992. ISBN 3-925924-09-4
11. In original: English. „His life has been taught to at least six generations, and one can fairly say that almost every second German generation has encountered another version of Bismarck. No other German political figure has been as used and abused for political purposes.“ Div.: Karina Urbach, Between Savior and Villain. 100 Years of Bismarck Biographies, in: The Historical Journal. Jg. 41, no. 4, December 1998, p. 1141-1160 (1142).
12. George Hesekiel: Das Buch vom Grafen Bismarck. Velhagen & Klasing, Bielefeld 1869; Ludwig Hahn: Furst von Bismarck. Sein politisches Leben und Wirken. 5 bd. Hertz, Berlin 1878-1891; Hermann Jahnke: Furst Bismarck, sein Leben und Wirken. Kittel, Berlin 1890; Hans Blum: Bismarck und Seine Zeit. Eine Biographie für das deutsche Volk. 6 bd. mit Reg-Bd. Beck, Munich 1894-1899.
13. "Denn dieses Lebenswerk hätte doch nicht nur zur äußeren, sondern auch zur inneren Einigung der Nation führen sollen und jeder von uns weiß: das ist nicht erreicht. Es konnte mit seinen Mitteln nicht erreicht werden.” Zit. n. Volker Ullrich: Die nervous Großmacht. Aufstieg und Untergang des deutschen Kaiserreichs. 6. Aufl. Fischer Taschenbuch Verlag, Frankfurt am Main 2006, ISBN 978-3-596-11694-2, S. 29.
14. Theodor Fontana: Der Zivil-Wallenstein. In: Gotthard Erler (Hrsg.): Kahlebutz and Krautentochter. Markische Portrats. Aufbau Taschenbuch Verlag, Berlin 2007,