ABSTRACT
German economic growth in the 19th century began with the Zollverein promoted by Prussia, which led the political and economic unification of Germany. Prussia controlled a long strip of Baltic coastland, and all provinces of the state had experienced considerable economic growth. A major factor accompanying and aiding Prussian economic expansion was population growth. The success of William Frederick’s agricultural policy is evident from events during the great famines in 1770—71, as peasants from other areas of Germany moved to Prussia, where food was more available. Frederick adopted the entire vast range of mercantilist policies in order to promote the growth of Prussian industries and launch new sectors. Despite the remarkable political and economic results, the activities of the Prussian monarchs present various criticalities, largely due to the particularly authoritarian and militaristic nature of the state. A major factor accompanying and aiding Prussian economic expansion was population growth.
