Otto von Bismarck (1815 – 1898) was a Prussian statesman who masterminded the unification of Germany and served as its first Chancellor from 1871 to 1890. Known as the "Iron Chancellor", he used diplomacy and military strategy to consolidate Prussian dominance and establish the German Empire. His Realpolitik approach shaped European politics for decades.
Born into a Junker family, Bismarck studied law and initially pursued a diplomatic career. He gained prominence as Minister President of Prussia (1862 – 1890), leading successful wars against Denmark, Austria, and France. His victories culminated in the German Empire’s creation under Prussian leadership in 1871. Bismarck then focused on maintaining European stability through alliances and diplomacy, notably with Russia and Austria-Hungary.
Domestically, Bismarck implemented the first modern welfare state to undermine socialist movements while suppressing opposition through the Kulturkampf against the Catholic Church and anti-socialist laws. Despite his conservative views, his policies reshaped Germany’s political and social structure.
In 1890, Emperor Wilhelm II dismissed Bismarck, fearing his dominance. He retired to write his memoirs, leaving behind a legacy as one of Europe’s most influential leaders. His unification of Germany laid the foundation for its rise as a major world power.