Otto Von Bismarck And Bismarckian Germany

Preliminary research into Otto von Bismarck and Bismarckian Germany’s portrayal in history reveal that from the 1870’s to 1920’s, Bismarck was portrayed favourably as the “man in charge” and as a necessity for Germany to advance its goals as a newly formed nation, a concept that could have its roots stemming from early nationalistic influences that arose during said period. This interpretation throughout the 1930 and 1940’s period changed dramatically as a result of Nazism and the Third Reich, where the Bismarckian narrative was heavily altered following the collapse of the Weimar Republic, as the Nazi regime constantly and consistently utilised the thus altered “Bismarck” to justify themselves. This is famously found in Hitler’s manipulation

of the Bismarckian historical legacy, where he “glowingly praised his predecessor’s work which had started the ‘ascent’ of the German people.” Finally, post war historical thought has allowed historians of different perspectives (non-German) to comment upon the figure, an example of which can be found in A.J.P Taylor’s portrayal as “a man who helped to give Europe peace for forty years.” However, other publications such as Fritz Fischer “Germany’s Aim in the First World War” have spark significant and consistent historical debate that continues into the modern period. As such, the historical interpretations of Otto von Bismark have indeed undergone an extensive change, which can in no small part be attributed to the changing social and ideological contexts of historians that have assess the chancellor, and his impact upon Germany. However, the discovery of still new sources and evidence highlights that over time, there is and always will be a slow but steady movement towards the objective and unbiased portrayal of Otto von Bismarck and Bismarckian Germany.