An assessment of the degree of growth of nationalism in Germany, up to 1850

Emergence of Nationalism Post-Napoleon

After the downfall of Napoleon, there was a considerable power vacuum in Germany, with various states attempting to assert their independence and control.
The Congress of Vienna in 1815 attempted to restore order, creating the German Confederation, a loose association of 39 German states meant to provide a collective defence arrangement.
However, this arrangement sowed the seeds of German nationalism, as the Confederation lacked a central government, leading to many Germans desiring a unified, powerful state.

The Role of Cultural and Intellectual Movements

The rise of the Romantic movement in Germany played a significant role in promoting feelings of German nationalism. It celebrated Germanic traditions, language, and folklore, thereby creating a distinct sense of national identity.
The publication of works like the Grimms’ Fairy Tales and the philosophy of intellectuals such as Fichte and Hegel emphasised the concept of a German ‘Volk’ or people, contributing to a growing wave of national sentiment.

The Influence of Economic Factors

The Zollverein (customs union) was created in 1834, uniting many German states in economic partnership and sparking increased economic interdependence and cooperation. This economic unity laid a foundation for political unity.
Industrialisation and the resultant economic growth bolstered the middle class (Bürgertum), who became key supporters of nationalist ideas. They saw a unified Germany as a means to protect their economic interests.

The 1848 Revolutions and Aftermath

The 1848 revolutions across Europe sparked major democratic and nationalist revolts in many German states. The Frankfurt Parliament, established during these revolutions, aimed to create a unified Germany under a democratic constitution.
However, this movement for unification failed, largely due to resistance from the traditional rulers of individual German states and the lack of support from the working classes. But the revolitions did introduce the notion of a democratic, unified Germany into public consciousness.
These revolts and subsequent crackdowns led to a retreat of nationalism in the 1850s. However, the ideal of unification remained alive, ultimately paving the way for the rise of Prussia and the eventual unification of Germany under Bismarck in the 1860s and 1870s.

In summary, while there were significant outbursts of nationalist sentiment in Germany up to 1850, these were often countered by the realities of political and social divisions. However, the groundwork was being laid for the ultimate unification of Germany later in the century.