What was one significant effect of the Franco-Prussian War on European politics?

The unification of Germany was a significant effect of the Franco-Prussian War, which took place from 1870 to 1871. The conflict was primarily between the Kingdom of Prussia and the Second French Empire and was a crucial moment in the process of German unification.

Following Prussia's victory, various German states, previously fragmented and independent entities within the German Confederation, rallied around Prussia. The war galvanized nationalist sentiments among the German people, leading to increased support for the unification movement. The proclamation of the German Empire in January 1871 in the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles symbolized this unification, as it brought together numerous German territories under Prussian leadership, fundamentally reshaping the balance of power in Europe.

This moment not only solidified Germany's position as a dominant continental power but also led to significant shifts in alliances and political dynamics across Europe, as established powers reassessed their strategies in response to the newly unified state. Understanding this context illustrates why the unification of Germany stands out as a pivotal effect of the Franco-Prussian War.