North German Confederation

The North German Confederation (in German, Norddeutscher Bund), came into existence in 1867, following the dissolution of the German Confederation. Formed by 22 states of northern Germany, it was effectively a transitional grouping, lasting only until the founding of the German Empire in 1871. However, it cemented Prussian control over northern Germany, and emanated that same control via the Zollverein (Customs Union) into southern Germany. Notably, the Confederation excluded both Austria and Bavaria.

Related Topics:
German - 1867 - German Confederation - States - Germany - German Empire - 1871 - Prussia - Zollverein - Austria - Bavaria

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The Confederation came into being after Prussia defeated Austria in the Austro-Prussian War. Otto von Bismarck created the constitution, which came into force on 1 July, 1867, with the King of Prussia, Wilhelm I, as its President, and Bismarck as Chancellor. The states were represented in the Bundesrat (Federal Council) with 43 seats (of which Prussia held 17), while the people elected the Norddeutscher Reichstag (North German Diet).

Related Topics:
Austria - Austro-Prussian War - Otto von Bismarck - Constitution - 1 July - King of Prussia - Wilhelm I - Chancellor - Bundesrat - Norddeutscher Reichstag

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Following Prussia's defeat of France in the Franco-Prussian War of 1871, Bavaria, Württemberg, and Baden (together with parts of the Grand Duchy of Hesse which had not originally joined the Confederation), now grouped together with the various states of the Confederation to form the German Empire, with Wilhelm I taking the new title of German Emperor.

Related Topics:
France - Franco-Prussian War - Württemberg - Baden - German Empire

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