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Cultural unity and economic cooperation under the Zollverein helped German nationalism to grow. Meanwhile, liberal idealists and fear of invasion encouraged nationalistic feeling in the German states.

German nationalism had grown in the early 19th century due to Prussian ambition, the rise of liberal ideas and popular rebellion. However, the reassertion of Austrian power limited this growth.

Religious and economic differences combined with suspicion about Prussia kept the German states divided. The strength of Austria and varied aims of the nationalists also made unification unlikely.

By 1871, Prussia had established its military and economic superiority in central Europe. This, combined with the decline of Austrian influence, resulted in the unification of the German states.

In the 1920s, Germany faced social and economic problems. The Weimar Government was unpopular and faced opposition from both left and right. The Nazis were able to gain wide support and rise to power.

The Nazis crushed opposition through legal moves, fear and intimidation. Propaganda and social control kept the population in line. Popular economic and foreign policies encouraged widespread support.