Germany - A 12-episode large-scale television documentary, The Rise of a Great Nation

Author: Ren Xue'an
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-11-01
Features: As various European nations were establishing their national states, a piece of land in central Europe remained fragmented. The Germans, who had painful memories of division, contemplated and called for a unified nation. Through relentless efforts, the approach proposed by economist Friedrich List to achieve political unification through economic unification was implemented. The establishment of the Zollverein (Customs Union) broke down trade barriers, allowing the German economy to develop rapidly. Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, amidst the encirclement of European powers, sought survival and, after meticulous diplomatic preparations, ultimately completed the unification of Germany through three external wars in 1871. Adhering to the principle of balance among European powers, he brought Germany precious space for peaceful development. Always valuing education and technology, Germany quickly took the lead in the Second Industrial Revolution, surpassing Britain in over 30 years to become the second-largest economic power in Europe and the world. However, Germany soon became the source of two world wars. After World War II, Germany was divided again. Through profound reflection on the war, Germany ultimately achieved reunification through peaceful means.