How much Influence did the Prussian Military have on the Germans?

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The influence of the Prussian military on German culture and society was profound and long-lasting, shaping many of the values and characteristics often associated with Germany today. It’s not an exaggeration to say that for a significant period, Prussia was often described as “an army with a state,” rather than a state with an army.

Here’s a breakdown of its key influences:

1. The Rise of Militarism as a Core Value:

• State Built by the Army: Unlike many states that developed an army, Prussia’s very existence and expansion were inextricably linked to its military might. From the 17th century onwards, especially under rulers like Frederick William I (“the Soldier King”) and Frederick the Great, the military became the central pillar of the Prussian state.
• “School of the Nation”: In the 19th century, particularly after the Napoleonic Wars and the introduction of universal conscription, the Army became a “school of the nation.” Millions of young German men passed through its ranks, internalizing military values and discipline, which then permeated civilian life, socializing these generations into a hierarchical and disciplined society.
• Glorification of the Military: The military was highly respected and even glorified. Military officers often held a higher social standing than civilians, and martial achievements were often esteemed over civilian accomplishments.

2. Instillation of “Prussian Virtues”:

The military’s emphasis on discipline and efficiency translated into a set of widely admired “Prussian virtues” that became part of the broader German cultural identity. These include:

• Punctuality (Pünktlichkeit): Essential for military coordination and efficiency, it became a cornerstone of civilian life, reflecting respect for time and reliability.
• Order (Ordnungssinn): A systematic and organized approach was crucial for military logistics and operations, fostering a societal appreciation for structure, planning, and meticulousness.
• Diligence/Industriousness (Fleiß): Hard work and persistent effort were necessary for military success and economic development, reinforcing the idea of a strong work ethic.
• Sense of Duty (Pflichtbewusstsein): Loyalty, obedience, and commitment to one’s obligations were paramount in the military, extending to civic duty and professional responsibility.
• Discipline (Disziplin): Self-control, adherence to rules, and precision were drilled into soldiers, becoming a generalized expectation in society.
• Honesty/Integrity (Ehrlichkeit/Redlichkeit): Trustworthiness and straightforwardness were seen as essential for effective command and reliable execution of orders.
• Frugality (Sparsamkeit): Resourcefulness and avoiding waste were vital in a state that often had limited resources, encouraging a thrifty mindset.

3. Impact on Government and Administration:

• Efficient Bureaucracy: To support its powerful Army, Prussia developed an incredibly efficient, centralized, and incorruptible civil service. This bureaucratic model, characterized by clear hierarchies, rule-following, and meritocracy, became a blueprint for administration across Germany.
• State Loyalty: The emphasis shifted from loyalty to a feudal lord to loyalty to the state itself, a concept often personified by the military and its leaders.

4. Unification of Germany:

• Bismarck’s Role: Otto von Bismarck, a quintessential Prussian statesman, used the formidable Prussian military (and its victories against Denmark, Austria, and France) as the primary tool to unify the various German states into the German Empire in 1871. This cemented Prussian dominance and infused the new German nation with Prussian military values.
• Prussian Hegemony: The new German Empire was dominated by Prussia, with the Prussian King becoming the German Emperor and Prussian officers leading the unified German Army. Thus, Prussian military tactics and traditions continued to shape the national armed forces.

5. Long-term Consequences and Post-WWII Rejection:

• Contributing to Aggression: While many Prussian virtues were positive, the extreme form of Prussian militarism, with its strong belief in military solutions and a hierarchical society, is often cited as a contributing factor to Germany’s aggressive foreign policy in the lead-up to both World Wars.
• Post-1945 Shift: After the devastating experiences of two World Wars and the horrors of the Nazi regime (which heavily exploited and distorted these military traditions), there was a deliberate and widespread societal rejection of militarism in Germany. The state of Prussia itself was formally abolished by the Allies in 1947, and it was seen as the embodiment of German militarism and reaction.

Despite the explicit post-war anti-militarism, many of the “Prussian virtues” (like punctuality, order, diligence, and a strong sense of duty) have endured. They are still recognized as integral parts of German culture, albeit largely decoupled from their military origins and reinterpreted through a civilian, democratic lens. The legacy is complex: a source of both national pride for its efficiency and order, and historical introspection for its role in destructive conflicts.