Prussia's Rise and Reforms

The video explores the rise of Brandenburg-Prussia from the aftermath of the Thirty Years' War to its emergence as a great power under Frederick the Great. It highlights key reforms by Frederick William, the Great Elector, and his successors, including military and economic advancements. The narrative covers Prussia's territorial expansions, its role in European conflicts, and the influence of the Enlightenment. The video concludes with Prussia's transformation into a formidable state, setting the stage for the eventual unification of Germany.

What was a significant outcome for Brandenburg-Prussia after the Thirty Years' War?

• It became a maritime empire.

• It gained territory and access to the Baltic Sea.

• It lost its standing army.

• It became a vassal of France.

How did Frederick William strengthen Prussia's position in the 1650s?

• By abolishing the nobility.

• By forming an alliance with France.

• By introducing a centrally funded standing army.

• By conquering the Holy Roman Empire.

What title did Frederick I assume in 1701?

• King of Brandenburg

• Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire

• King in Prussia

• Duke of Silesia

What was one of the key reforms introduced by Frederick William I?

• The abolition of the standing army.

• The School's Edict of 1717, expanding primary education.

• The establishment of a maritime empire.

• The introduction of a new currency.

What was a key feature of Frederick William I's military reforms?

• Disbanding the cavalry.

• Abolishing the officer class.

• Ranking serving soldiers above civilians.

• Reducing the size of the army.

What was Frederick the Great's initial military action upon ascending the throne?

• Attacking the Ottoman Empire

• Invading France

• Occupying Habsburg Silesia

• Conquering the Holy Roman Empire

Which intellectual movement did Prussia host during Frederick the Great's reign?

• The Renaissance

• The Enlightenment

• The Industrial Revolution

• The Reformation

What was a major consequence of the first partition of Poland for Prussia?

• It lost its independence.

• It connected Prussia with Brandenburg.

• It gained control of the Baltic Sea.

• It became a vassal of Austria.

How did Frederick the Great ensure his people wouldn't starve during bad harvests?

• By importing grain from Russia.

• By storing grain after good harvests.

• By relying on foreign aid.

• By increasing taxes on food.

What was a significant achievement of Frederick the Great's military campaigns?

• The conquest of France.

• The annexation of Silesia.

• The defeat of the Ottoman Empire.

• The unification of Italy.