What was zollverein ? Why was it introduced ? Describe its advantages ? How did it strengthen nationalist sentiments in German states ?
(1) Zollverein was a custom union that was formed in 1834 at the initiative of Prussia and was joined by most of the German States. (2) Causes of introduction of zollverein : In the first half of the nineteenth century there were countless small principalities in the German-speaking region. Napoleon had created a confederation of 39 states. This confederation had many drawbacks as mentioned below : Each had its own currency, weights and measures. From Hamburg to Nuremberg there were 11 custom barriers. Traders had to pay a custom duty at each barrier. Duty was paid according to weight or measurement, so there was a lot of problem in calculation. The above conditions were an obstacle to economic growth. Traders and new commercial classes wanted movement of goods without any hindrance. So in 1834 at the initiative of Prussia zollverein was formed. (3) Advantages : It was formed for the creation of a unified economic territory allowing the unhindered movement of goods, people and capital. The union abolished tariff barriers and reduced the number of currencies from over thirty to two. A network of railways was created which increased mobility harnessing economic interests to national unification. Industry grew due to free trade. (4) It created a national unity in economic matters at a time when Germany was divided. It accustomed German states to cooperate without Austria who had not become a member of zollverein. It taught them the advantages of Prussian leadership. It was the beginning of German unity. Thus, economic nationalism strengthened the wider nationalist sentiments.
