HISTORY OF PRUSSIA

The End of Prussia.

2008-06-12T16:58:00.000-07:00

After the appointment of Hitler as the new chancellor, the Nazis used the opportunity of the absence of Franz von Papen to appoint Hermann Göring federal commissioner for the Prussian ministry of the interior. The Reichstag election of March 5, 1933 strengthened the position of the National Socialist Party.
Because the Reichstag building had been set on fire a few weeks earlier, the new Reichstag was opened in the Garrison Church of Potsdam on March 21, 1933 in the presence of President Paul von Hindenburg. In a propaganda-filled meeting between Hitler and the Nazi Party, the "marriage of old Prussia with young Germany" was celebrated, to win over the Prussian monarchists, conservatives, and nationalists and induce them to vote for the Enabling Act of 1933.
In the centralized state created by the Nazis in the "Law on the Reconstruction of the Reich" and the "Law on Reich Governors" the states were dissolved. The federal state governments were now controlled by governors for the Reich who were appointed by the chancellor. From 1934 almost all ministries were merged and only a few departments were able to maintain their independence. Hitler himself became formally the governor of Prussia. His functions were exercised, however, by Hermann Göring, as Prussian prime minister.
As provided for in the "Greater Hamburg Law", certain exchanges of territory took place. Prussia was extended on April 1, 1937, for instance, by the incorporation of the Free and Hanseatic City of Lübeck.
The Prussian lands transferred to Poland after the Treaty of Versailles were re-annexed during World War II. However, most of this territory was not reintegrated back into Prussia but assigned to separate Gaue of Nazi Germany.

History of Prussia

2008-06-11T05:35:00.000-07:00

For centuries, Prussia had a significant influence on German and European history. In 1701, he union of Brandenburg and Prussia in 1618 led to the proclamation of the Kingdom of Prussia. The last capital of the state of Prussia was Berlin. During the 18th century, it became a great European power under the reign of Frederick II and during the 19th century, Chancellor Otto von Bismarck pursued a policy of uniting the German principalities into a "Lesser Germany" which would exclude the Austrian Empire. Prussia became the dominant power in Germany in 1815, after the Napoleonic Wars and Prussia finally became part of the German Confederation. Prussia dominated northern Germany politically, economically, and in terms of population. In 1919, after World War I, Prussia became part of the Weimar Republic as a free state. The long struggle in Germany between liberals, who wanted a united, federal Germany under a democratic constitution, and conservatives, who wanted to maintain Germany as a patchwork of independent, monarchical states, with Prussia and Austria competing for influence. Because of Prussia's size and economic vitality, smaller states began to join its free trade area. In regards to size and capability, Prussia was incredibly successful and powerful. Its population capsized that of bordering countries and states and therefore made Prussia stronger economically.

Prussia after WWII

2008-04-06T11:35:00.000-07:00

After World War I, West Prussia was lost to Poland, and East Prussia was separated from the rest of German Prussia in 1919, under the terms of the Treaty of Versailles. The other provinces of Prussia between the two World Wars were Rhine, Brandenburg, Pomerania, Berlin, Saxony, Schleswig-Holstein, Hannover, Westphalia, Grenzmark Posen-Westpreussen, Hessen-Nassau, and Hohenzollern, and Silesia. In 1947, after World War II, Prussia was abolished as a political unit and, with the exception of East Prussia, split into different parts of the four zones of occupation in Germany, which was controlled by France, Great Britain, the United States, and USSR. The northeastern part of East Prussia was annexed by the USSR, and the remainder was put under Polish control. Berlin was the capital of Prussia prior to World War II, and the principal cities included Frankfurt am Main, Cologne, Essen, Dortmund, Düsseldorf, Magdeburg, and Königsber. The state of Prussia was legally abolished in 1947 by the Allied Control Council, a group formed after World War II to resolve issues relating to Germany.

Bismark's Reign, 1863

2008-03-13T09:43:00.000-07:00

Journal,

Bismarck has became the chief minister of Prussia. He refuses to grant members of the middle class any sort of control or order and he's dedicated to ruling by blood and iron, convinced it is the only way to solve any problems. Many of my voter friends, like the doctor, for example, rallied a group of good men and opposed Bismark's ways by sending large liberal majorities to parliament. I can only imagine Bismark was not amused. Although, he was able to keep Russia and France neutral after our first attempted annexation of Schleswig Holstein, which led to our alliance with Austria in the war against Denmark. The German Confederation was dissolved and a new North German Confederation, led by Prussia, was formed. Austria then backed down from German affairs and, as a result, Bismarck's goal of Prussian expansion was being accomplished.
Although he's a very stiff and harsh ruler, Bismark has done Prussia a world of good.

A Peasant's View of the Revolution of 1830 in France

2008-02-27T16:02:00.000-08:00

Dear Journal,

Louis XVIII's Constitutional Charter gave me great hope. All our economic and social advances seemed completely protected as were our rights of artistic freedom and total liberty. Although this was the case, Charles X, Louis's successor, was an awful, terrible man. He took away all our rights and demeaned our society, and so after our revolt, Charles fled, leaving Louis Philippe as our new king. He seemed to take on the Constitutional Charter and accepted the blue, white and red flag of the Revolution, which made me extremely content. Although all these changes should make for more progress, our situation here has remained unchanged. It seems our Revolution -all our fighting, our war and our efforts- were completely in vain.

Prussia And Peace (A Monarch's Journal Entry)

2008-02-25T06:46:00.000-08:00

Dear Journal,

The Congress of Vienna was to generate a peace settlement that I, the aristocratic monarch of Prussia would like to uphold. First and foremost, it is with my utmost duty that the other monarchies of Russia, Austria, and Great Britain all hold France in line and limit their power. We need to find a balance of power and justice. Prussia recieved territory on France's eastern border against France. There are unfortunately disputes concerning decisions at the Congress of Vienna. Those disputes will be settled by the Great Powers. Prussia is one of the Great Powers, so I will make sure that Prussia recieves and benefits in all ways possible. Hopefully, the decisions we make will lead to new ideas that motivate the world to change in a positive way.

-Prussian Leader

(beginning of Chapter 23, leads to the Radical Ideas and Early Socialism)

The Life of a Prussian Peasant in the City

2008-02-25T06:28:00.000-08:00

Dear Family,

Due to the new intellectual and political era that erupted, there is a rapid period of urbanization that is occuring. The growth of industry has provided me with many new working opportunities. Although, I do have a job working in a factory and I am getting paid thanks to the growth of cities there are negative side effects. Since I am unfortunately a peasant, i suffer from bad housing, lack of sanitation, and a sense of hopelessness that doesnt seem to cease. Unfortunately, the industry and city growth is mostly negative to me and my health. Hopefully, sanitation rules and public health will improve quickly.

From,
A Prussian Peasant

**Prussian Peasant living in the city/working conditions

Prussia during The Congress of Vienna

2008-01-29T18:08:00.000-08:00

Prussia and Russia are in agreement during The Congress of Vienna, both countries believe that they should be compensated for what they lost. The Prussians wanted the large and wealthy kingdom of Saxony and parts of Germany, while the Russians wanted to restore and dominate Poland. These various demands made by Prussia and Russia led Castlereagh and Metternich to opposition and secret alliances. Prussia realized the risk of war ahead and finally settled for only parts of Saxony.

Peasant Journal Entry

2008-01-27T17:07:00.000-08:00

Journal,

Napoleon has slowly but surely taken over western Germany. Our country is especially surprised by his control in German affairs and we have mobilized our troops even though we have been at peace with France for more than 10 years. Our troops were outnumbered more than double at Jena, and were defeated by Napoleon’s armies. The war was then joined by the Russian army and lasted until the spring of 1807. I consider the worst part to be Prussia’s expected support of Napoleon’s continental system, which ceased trade with Britain. We have suffered under Napoleon’s rule for far too long. I only pray for the final days of his era.

Political Balance After the Congres of Vienna

2008-01-27T15:05:00.000-08:00

Metternich, Castlereagh, Hardenberg, Talleyrand and Tsar Alexander I were all in agreement that the future security of Europe would be promised if, and only if, all five major powers were considered approximately equal, and no one power could overthrow the others. Not only was this was distribution of power extremely beneficial, it was also very effective. The period of time between 1814 and 1815 is considered one of the best examples of a balance of power in all of Europe.

Cultral Impact in 17th Century Prussia

2008-01-27T15:03:00.001-08:00

More young people married for love rather than for economic reasons, schools and education led to the rise of new literature. Prussia led the way for universal education by encouraging the reading of the bible and attendance to elementary school. Education for commoners began in the 17th century and was headed by Protestant Prussia.

The Changing Life of People (Prussia)

2008-01-17T17:57:00.000-08:00

Social Impact: Extended families were popular as well as the rising of a late marriage combined with a Nuclear Family household. More marriages were delayed and maturity in a marriage was evident.Europe also experienced an illegitimacy explosion, illegitimate births rose steadily which led to a growing population.Economic Impact: Economic fluctuations and unemployment were constant threats to young men, Government run foundling homes were established. The cottage industry grew, created new opportunity for earing a living. Political Impact: Reign of Frederick the Great in PrussiaCultural Impact: More young people married for love rather than for economic reasons, schools and education led to the rise of new literature. Prussia led the way for universal education by encouraging the reading of the bible and attendance to elementary school.

Prussia Impacted by the Enlightenment and Absolutism

2007-12-04T16:22:00.000-08:00

The Enlightenment and Absolutism were adapted and influential/inspirational for the monarchs of Prussia. Frederick the Great of Prussia, specifically spent his reign building up the strength of his army, keeping the culture of the Enlightenment separated from the concept of international politics. That is until the Seven Years' War, Frederick realzied that considering humane policies for his subjects may make the state stronger. Ultimately, Frederick "allowed his subjects to believe as they wished in religious and philosophical matters (616)", futher developed knowlege by strengthening school systems, and lastly making better the legal system, bureaucracy, and government of Prussia.

Clergy Member

2007-11-20T18:04:00.000-08:00

Journal,

It can be said that Prussia has seen a unique and overall different array of rulers. From the early stages of Great Elector's Power, to Elector Frederick III, to finally Frederick William I, Prussia has had its fair share of problems and improvements. The best yet, was helping Frederick William bulid an trustworthy, caring, and strong bureaucracy. This bureaucracy helped Prussia economically. Overall, because of Frederick's tough, hard working qualities, Prussia is now one of the most militaristic countries at this time.

- A Clergy Member in Prussia

Rulers of Prussia #3

2007-11-20T17:56:00.001-08:00

Dear Journal,

I am the complete opposite of Frederick William I. I do not put all of my focus on money and the buliding of expensive palaces. Instead, I plan on being a reformer and establishing Prussian absolutism and give it special, individualistic qualtiets. I intend to produce and create the best army Europe has ever seen. I will dedicate my life to this army and try my hardest to make it strong and powerful. By doing this I hope to succeed in expanding the royal absolutism in Prussia and creating a powerful, mighty, centralized bureaucracy.

-Frederick William I - "The Solider's King"

Rulers of Prussia #2

2007-11-20T17:45:00.000-08:00

Dear Journal,

The Great Elector has died and I am the new successor. I like to describe myself as being the being the best ruler, luxury loving, and a great tyrant. Although, I think I am a great ruler I heard around my palace that people think differently of me. I am often described as weak of the body and mind, petty, and very materialistic (often spending my money without thought or care). I do not believe I am any of those things. I can take credit for helping the Holy Roman emperor in the War of the Spanish Succession

-Elector Frederick III ----> King Frederick I

Travelogue of Potsdam

2007-11-20T17:34:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the beautiful Potsdam. Founded in the 7th century as a Slavic village the city went through many ups and downs. First, the Thirty Years' War destroyed half the town but then the city's fortune changed dramatically when it was chosen as the hunting residence of Frederick William I. Situated on the Havel River sits the historical capital of Brandenburg. It is the residence of the Prussian kings. While visiting take in the sites of the breathtaking lakes and unique landscapes. The parks and palaces of Sanssouci are the main points of interest when people visit Potsdam. Other places not to miss are the Orangery Palace, the New Palace, and the Charlottenhof Palace. The Old Market Square is Potsdam's historical centre. The square is dominated by the dome of the Nicolas Church. Potsdam is a magnificent place to visit to experience old culture mixed with the new.

Rulers of Prussia#1

2007-11-20T17:14:00.000-08:00

Dear Journal,

The Hohenzollern family has died out and our country, Prussia, has turned to the elector of Brandenburg. Population decreased and devastation rose, which weakend the power of the Estates in Prussia. The weakening of of the political power and estates is the exact reason why I, Frederick William, otherwise known as the "Great Elector" came to royal absolutism. I am 22 years old and I am determined to unify and bring peace to three provinces and add them by dipolomacy and war. I consider myself a fair person. Although the estates of Bradenburg and Prussia are dominated by the nobility and landowning class and have much power, I have recently reduced and limited their political power. I taxed towns , made Prussia an absolutist state and demanded more money for soliders in war. If I am oppossed I will arest and imprison that person/persons without trial.

Frederick William "The Great Elector"

Michelle Bellifemine

The Young Kingdom

2007-11-20T17:07:00.000-08:00

Dear Journal,

The new Kingdom is still very poor and hasn't fully recovered from the Thirty Years' War. Our territory is now scattered across 1200 km. Last year the bubonic plague struck killing about one third of the population of the Duchy of Prussia. The plague reached Prenzlau last August but finally stopped before reaching the capital Berlin. Prussia defeated Sweden in the Great Northern War and it ended Swedish control on the southern shores of the Baltic Sea. Last week the Prusso-Swedish Treaty of Stockholm was issued which allowed us to regain parts of Pomerania that was under Swedish control.

A Day in the Life of a Noble (1701)

2007-11-20T16:36:00.000-08:00

Journal,

It's was a bitter day and the night is colder than imaginable. The Ottoman's won't stop with their strict and ridiculous rule. Thankfully, we have been able to protect our territories and prevent Charles from implementing that ludicrous Pragmatic Sanction he is so keen on. In addition, my friends and I, despite our reduced strength, were successful in preventing the rise of Hapsburg absolutism. Oh, I hear the servants now, it is time for dinner. Tonight's menu hopefully will be better than the last, or that cook is finished!

A Day in the Life of a Peasant (1701)

2007-11-20T16:18:00.001-08:00

Dear Journal,

Today was very cold and windy. I've grown tired of wandering and getting by with just a few bites of food and the clothes on my back. Elector Frederick III rules so crudely yet spends our tax dollars on materialistic things. His ridiculously expensive palace, for example, is proof of his lavish ways. His unnecessary taxes are unfair and his reduction of my freedoms is cruel and unjust. My rights have been reduced to practically nothing. I don’t know how much longer of this I can take.

Political Changes

2007-11-20T15:36:00.000-08:00

20 January 1701

Dear Journal,

Just a couple of days ago Elector Frederick III upgraded the country from a duchy to a kingdom, and crowned himself King Frederick I. The country is an autocratic monarchy and will continue to be under King Frederick I's reign. After Prussia's constitution was put into place, a two-house parliament was issued. The lower house is called the Landtag which was elected by taxpayers, who were split into 3 classes according to the amount of taxes they each paid. This allows about one-third of the voters to choose 85% of the legislature. The upper house, is named the Prussian House of Lords, which is appointed by the king. The King has full executive power and ministers are responsible only to him. A result of this is that the landowning classes, remain unbroken, in the eastern provinces.

Social & Cultural Aspects of Prussia during Unit 1 & 2

2007-11-20T15:19:00.000-08:00

During the Thirty Years War the population of the Prussia dropped drastically and many of the villiages in Prussia vanished. Socially speaking, a lot of German speaking peasents had a lot in common with Polish peasents in other provinces. When the Great Elector came to power the state's total revenue tripled and the size of the army increased largely, to the point that in 1688 the population of Prussia was one million, and thirty thousand troops made up a standing army during times of peace. There were Estates of Brandenburg and they were dominated by the nobility and the land owners. Land owners back then were called "Junkers." If the Estates had successfully resisted the demands of the absolutist Grand Elector their government would have had the possibility of evolving into a form of Constitutionalism, instead of Absolutism. The power that the Estates had held declined greatly after the introduction of a pernament taxation without consent was enstilled. The Prussian people paid a heavy price for the obsessions and indulgences of the Absolute Ruler. And the society of Prussia became rigid and extremely disciplined.

Prussian Politics

2007-11-16T05:06:00.000-08:00

In the thirteenth century, Prussia was taken over by the Teutonic Knights, who played a large part in making Prussia [Germany] who they are today. The Prussians continually would revolt against the Teutonic Knights were pushed into doing peasent labor, and were for the most part slaves in many ways. The government was extremely centralized and so began the foundation of the Prussian state. The knights controlled the land from Marienburg but gave cities considerable amounts of freedom. A lot of the cities decided to join the Hanseatic League. The seizure of Danzig and Pomerilia created a large controversy with Poland, because Poland had already claimed those areas of land for themselves. Divided into East and West Prussia at the time, at the end of the controversy with Poland, they lost Pomerilia and West Prussia to Poland because they were defeated, leaving them with East Prussia. The capital was then made Konigsberg in East Prussia and the grand master [Duke] of Prussia was Albert of Brandenburg who openly accepted the Reformation and declared Prussia a "secular duchy." Also during the Rennissance and Reformation the Prussians were led by the Hohenzollern Family but they had very little power because most of the power was given to the "electors of Brandenburg" or the "dukes of Prussia." In 1618 the almost powerless family of the Hohenzollern died out and The Great Elector came to power in 1640 and was determined to unite the three provinces to make a great Prussia. Brandenburg, Prussia, and the scattered territories that Prussia held along the Rhine in Western Germany that they obtained in 1614.