Question

in 1866, bismarck instigated the austro-prussian war and the decisive victory allowed him to annex several northern german states and dissolve the austrian led german confederation in favor of one dominated by prussia. why did he allow austria and four southern german states to be independent? ○ they were catholic and he sought to keep regions separated by religion. ○ although victorious in the austro-prussian war, he was too practical to initiate a prolonged and risky conflict. ○ he was weak and inefficient. ○ he buckled under the threat of austria.

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Option 1: There's no strong historical evidence that Bismarck separated regions by religion for this decision.
• Option 2: Bismarck was a practical politician. After the Austro - Prussian War, a prolonged conflict with Austria (and incorporating southern states with different dynamics) would be risky. His goal was German unification under Prussia's lead, but he knew when to stop to avoid unnecessary risks.
• Option 3: Bismarck was known for his strong and efficient leadership, so this is incorrect.
• Option 4: Prussia won the war, so Austria was not in a position to threaten Prussia to make Bismarck back down.

Answer:

B. Although victorious in the Austro - Prussian War, he was too practical to initiate a prolonged and risky conflict.