2. 1848
Increasingly there were
demands for change from
across all of the states.
An economic recession
saw many Germans
without work and living
in poverty.

3. February 1848
At first protests were
peaceful, but involved
large groups of people.
There were mass
meetings and petitions
demanding changes too.

4. February 1848
Across the Bund, violent
protests took place
demanding social and
political change.
In Austria, Chancellor
Metternich had to leave
Vienna for his own safety.

5. Arguments for
Protests took place across all
states – showing extent of feeling.
Also involved a range of people –
from peasants to the middle
classes to ethnic minorities too.
Limited Austria’s power too.

6. Arguments against
No agreement about what
change meant. The middle
classes were focused on political
reforms and others wanted to
see social changes.
Ruling classes also still
controlled the military.

7. Arguments against
King Frederick William IV of
Prussia had mixed opinions on
the protests.
He was shocked at the number
of protesters who were killed –
but also opposed their demands.