Otto von Bismarck

Otto von Bismarck was born to Karl Wilhelm Ferdinand von Bismarck and Wilhelmine Luise von Mencken in Schönhausen, a small town in the Prussian province of Saxony.

Bismarck begins his studies at the University of Göttingen, where he focuses on law and joins a fraternity. He also becomes involved in the political debates of the time.

Bismarck transfers to the University of Berlin to continue his law studies. He completes his education and begins his career in the Prussian civil service.

Bismarck is elected to the Prussian Diet (Landtag) as a conservative representative. He quickly becomes known for his strong opposition to liberal and democratic reforms.

Bismarck is appointed as the Prussian envoy to the Federal Diet of the German Confederation in Frankfurt, where he negotiates Prussia's interests and begins to develop his diplomatic skills.

Bismarck is appointed Minister President of Prussia by King Wilhelm I. He implements his 'blood and iron' policy, focusing on military and diplomatic means to unify Germany under Prussian leadership.

Under Bismarck's leadership, Prussia defeats Austria in the Seven Weeks' War, solidifying Prussia's dominance in German affairs and paving the way for German unification.

Following the Franco-Prussian War and the proclamation of the German Empire, Bismarck is appointed the first Chancellor of the German Empire, marking the culmination of his efforts to unify Germany.

Bismarck's relationship with the new Emperor Wilhelm II becomes strained. Their disagreements over domestic and foreign policies lead to increasing tension and eventually Bismarck's resignation.

Bismarck is forced to resign as Chancellor of the German Empire due to his conflicts with Emperor Wilhelm II. His departure marks the end of his influential political career.

Otto von Bismarck dies at his estate in Friedrichsruh, surrounded by his family. His legacy as the 'Iron Chancellor' and the architect of German unification endures in German history and politics.