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Otto von Bismarck (1815-1898) was a prominent German statesman who played a central role in the unification of Germany and served as its first chancellor. Born into an aristocratic family in Prussia, Bismarck pursued a career in politics and diplomacy. His political ideology was deeply rooted in conservative, autocratic ideals, and he firmly believed in the strong centralization of power.

Bismarck rose to prominence as a diplomat, first serving as the Prussian envoy to the German Confederation and later as the ambassador to Russia and France. He became known for his skillful maneuvering and pragmatism in international affairs. In domestic politics, Bismarck championed the idea of "Realpolitik," which emphasized practical goals rather than ideological principles.

Bismarck's most significant achievement was his instrumental role in unifying the German states into a single, powerful nation-state. Through a series of strategic wars, he successfully unified Prussia, led by King Wilhelm I, with other German territories, including Bavaria, Wurttemberg, and Saxony. Bismarck then spearheaded the formation of the German Empire in 1871, with Wilhelm I as its first emperor.

As chancellor, Bismarck implemented a series of reforms aimed at consolidating the power of the German Empire and maintaining stability. He introduced social welfare policies, including health insurance and workers' compensation, to appease the rising socialist movement. He also pursued a robust foreign policy aimed at maintaining peace among European powers and securing Germany's interests.

Despite his authoritarian approach and controversial methods, Otto von Bismarck left an indelible mark on German and European history. His unification efforts and astute diplomacy established Germany as a major player on the world stage, setting the stage for the events that would unfold in the 20th century.