The Birth of a Modern German Nation

Before the physical borders of Germany ever appeared, there was a psychological border that had a presence. The people who lived in German speaking lands began to show patriotism and other connecting beliefs that were aimed at a country that didn’t exist. This idea really flourished during a phase referred to as the Biedermeier, which was a transitional period between neoclassicism and romanticism, where arts, architecture and music began to make vast changes (Schulze, 111). This style grew during a period of economic impoverishment in the early to mid-1800’s. In the field of literature, derivative writers carried the day and small forms dominated. In relation, one prominent figure during this era included Heinrich Heine, whose deceptively simple and melodic verses of captured the hearts of an entire generation.

An example of Biedermeier furniture. It represents the first modern European decorative style not dictated by the tastes of the Aristocracy.

In Germany (or what was to become Germany) was similar. In regards to music, many musicians and composers grew in popularity and talent during this time, such as Albert Lortzing. Who at this time, was just as popular as the well-known, Ludwig van Beethoven. Beethoven, who is still considered as one of the best composers of all time, was known during this time for turning to Haus-Musik, pieces for piano or string quartet and songs that could be performed at home, and or private gatherings.

Albert Lortzing. A very famous opera composer during the Biedermeier phase.

Going beyond the developments of the arts, German unification was spreading. Although there were no official boundaries or clear borders to Germany, there was already a definition to the unification: “German Fatherland had as yet no fixed shape. It was a poetic, historical, and utopian notion, an ideal that in its more earthly incarnation usually bore the name ‘Prussia.’” Though there was in increase in reference to “German people” individuals referred to a cultural and linguistic unity more than anything else and did not begin to imply that many separate German states would actually be consolidated into one single nation anytime soon (Schulze, 117).

The years following 1840 saw a rebirth of German nationalism. The Gymnastics movement (Turnbewegung) spread across Germany with an accompanying ideology that linked the goal of physical fitness with the ideas of patriotism and national defense (Schulze 119). A key component of this national movement was the Gesangverein, which is a chorale society. Here, umbrella organizations were formed that sponsored the first fanned nationalistic sentiment. Members not only promoted patriotic theme songs, but they also gave speeches. During this era, the first pan-German academic congress took place, which is where individuals stressed the significant link between scholarship and the idea of nationhood.

  Friedrich Ludwig Jahn. Recognized as the founding father of Turnbewegung.

“In short, the German Nation was born in the minds of the intelligentsia, as a cultural identity without direct ties to politics. It was therefore only logical that its great heroes were not princes and military leaders as in France and England but rather a collection of poets and philosophers…”(Schulze, 91). I believe that the history of the German culture is covered in this single sentence. While Germany is known for its resilient military force, and the wars it has part-taken in, it carries good-hearted roots. In that, these roots made it inevitable for the many kingdoms scattered around what was to become Germany, to unite and mold one well-distinguished country. 

I find this topic interesting because it shows us that Germany existed before “Germany” was created. When visiting, I am curious to see how these roots are still visible in the German culture today, seeing that it has gone through a tremendous amount of cultural, social, and political change. While visiting, I am really looking forward to having the opportunity to talk to locals in regards to their rich, cultural history.