Bismarck and the Development of Germany, Volume II

Focusing on the period of 1871-1880, this volume examines Bismarck's pivotal role in shaping German and European politics as the new German Reich emerged as a dominant power. It explores the questions surrounding Bismarck's ambitions and the potential for further conquests, contrasting these with the reality of a relatively stable international order that followed unification. Pflanze provides an in-depth analysis of how this era, often perceived as one of conflict, actually fostered a prolonged period of peace despite various crises.