Austria played an important role in the unification of Germany.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (May/June 2023). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [1] In 1864 they both invaded Denmark.
2. [1] The Prussian needle gun was very effective in the fighting.
3. [1] The Danish army was defeated by Prussia and Austria.
4. [1] The war ended with the Peace of Vienna.
5. [1] Schleswig and Holstein were taken by Austria and Prussia.
6. [1] Austria revived the German Confederation.
7. [1] Some German states preferred the Confederation led by Austria to the Erfurt plan led by Prussia.
8. [1] Prussia's humiliation over Hesse-Cassel.
9. [1] Frederick William lost his nerve of Hesse-Cassel.
10. [1] Prussia abandoned the Erfurt Union.
11. [1] Prussia had to accept the return of the Confederation with Austria at its head.
12. [4-5] Explanation: Austria re-established influence as the ruler of Hesse-Cassel fled and sought help from the German Diet, leading to Austrian occupation that Prussia, under Frederick William, failed to challenge, damaging Prussian prestige.
13. [1] Austria was Prussia's rival for the leadership of a unified Germany.
14. [1] The Austrian defeat led to the North German Confederation under the leadership of Prussia. This was a big step towards full unification.
15. [1] France was against German unification and had to be defeated.
16. [1] The war with France united Germany behind Prussia.
17. [1] Prussia's growing economic strength was crucial in it being able to unite Germany.
18. [4-6] Argument for importance: Bismarck understood that defeating Austria was essential as their rivalry hindered unification. Austria's defeat in 1866 eliminated its influence, making Prussia the leader of the North German Confederation and clearing the path for unification.
19. [4-6] Argument against singular importance: Other factors like overcoming French opposition were equally vital. France viewed a united Germany as a threat, and Bismarck engineered a war with France that unified German states behind Prussia, leading to full unification after France's defeat. Prussia's growing economic strength was also crucial.