Prussia

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.

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.