2. Start of 1848
At the start of 1848 it looked
like a united Germany might
be achieved.
People from all groups in all
states were taking action – and
worrying their leaders. So
why did it ultimately fail?

3. Different aims
Although many people took
part in protests, they did not
all have the same priorities.
The middle classes wanted
political changes; the peasants
demanded social reforms.

4. Aims disagreement
Even amongst groups who
agreed on the need for
political change there was
disagreement
e.g. should a united Germany
include Austria or not?

5. Power of leaders
All the German states had control
of their armies. This allowed
them to control the people.
The leaders of each state did not
see any advantage for them in a
united Germany – there could
only be one leader.

6. Influence of Prussia
The Frankfurt Parliament
needed the support of Prussia
– it had no army of its own.
Frederick William supported
them for a period but then
changed his mind.