During recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in interest in the nineteenth century, resulting in many fine monographs. However, these studies often gravitate toward Prussia or treat Germany's southern and northern regions as separate entities or else are thematically compartmentalized. This book overcomes these divisions, offering a wide-ranging account of this revolutionary century and skillfully combining narrative with analysis. Its lively style makes it very accessible and ideal for all students of nineteenth-century Germany.
Excellent book in helping one understand Germany, Austria and Prussia before the unification of Germany by Wilhelm I and Bismarck. Easy to read and understand.
I read various chapters of this book to gain an understanding of the lives my ancestors experienced prior to their emmigration to Australia in 1848/49. I am fascinated and delighted with the way Brose has meticulously researched this history. A heavy read of course, but Brose is able to capture the political machinations of the turbulant times post Napolean. So many interests at stake - the royal families, the nobles, the professional trades - all tipped upside down after Napoleon cut a swathe through their territories. Devastation often being followed by some surprisingly forward thinking reforms, some to be continued, some to be demolished and governance to return to the old ways. These times were constantly changing with the 'little' people being caught in the wake. This really does help me understand why my ancestors were keen to try their luck by taking a dangerous journey across the oceans to an unkown land. The Chapter I read in particular for my research was Chapter 14, The Revolutions of 1848 and 1849.
Was an ok book, author likes showing off how smart he is by throwing in asides he does not explain which can get annoying. I don't have time to google his inside jokes in order to completely understand what he's getting at.