2. Shared language
One of the main reasons
for the creation of the
German Confederation
was that it united 25
million people who spoke
the same language under
one organisation.

3. German writers
Many German writers and
musicians began to believe in
the idea of a united Germany,
rather than separate states.
They wrote stories and music
which were widely read and
listened to across Germany.

4. Famous examples
Beethoven was a famous
composer, well known for his
emotional music that inspired
many Germans.
The Brothers Grimm also told
stories which suggested
Germans playing a heroic role.

5. Arguments for
Music and books were popular
across the Bund, so they
encouraged many people to
think about a Greater Germany.
This helped inspire a belief in
German greatness amongst all
the social classes.

6. Arguments against
Many writers and musicians did
not set out to promote German
nationalism, it was simply how
their work was interpreted.
Also, not everyone in Germany
could read or had access to
classical music.

7. Arguments against
Many of the patriotic songs
written at this time were in
response to events such as the
French threat to invade the
Rhine. This suggests that other
issues influenced cultural
factors, rather than the other
way around.