'''Prussia''' was a [[German]] state in eastern Europe dating back to the Middle Ages with its capital at [[Berlin]]. It became a kingdom in 1701, which became a major power under [[Frederick the Great]]. Later, under [[Wilhelm I]], Prussia along with its German allies won the [[Franco-Prussian War]] of 1870-71, and became the central part of a new German empire created by [[Otto von Bismark|Bismarck]].
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'''Prussia''' was a [[German]] state in eastern Europe dating back to the Middle Ages with its capital at [[Berlin]]. It became a kingdom in 1701, and by military prowess became a major power under [[Frederick the Great]]. It expanded rapidly, winning new territory after each major war. Later, under Chancellor [[Otto von Bismark]] Prussia defeated Denmark, Austria and France, and in 1871 and became the core of a new German empire. The Prussian king became the German Kaiser (emperor). Prussians dominated the new Germany, and began a [[Kulturkampf]] ("culture war") against the Catholics in Germany. Prussia was long synonymous with militarism (military control of the government) and a very high degree of military professionalism. Dominating politics were the rich landowners in the east known as "Junkers." The Junkers supported rapid industrialization in order to support a strong army and navy.
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The Prussian monarchy was abolished in 1918 just before the end of [[World War I]]. Prussia was a province until 1945, when it was dissolved by the Allies after [[World War II]], and the oldest part was divied between Poland and Russia.
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The Prussian monarchy was abolished in 1918 just before the end of [[World War I]]. Prussia continued as a province of Germany until 1945, when it was dissolved by the Allies after [[World War II]], and the oldest eastern part was divided between Poland and Russia.