9h 46min, jan 18, 1871 y - Proclamation of the German Empire

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Bismarck had entered into negotiations with the southern states soon after the outbreak of war, determined to use patriotic fervour as an instrument for achieving political consolidation. The enthusiasm aroused in Germany by the victory over France proved too much for the defenders of particularism. While Prussian guns bombarded Paris, William I was proclaimed emperor of a united nation at military headquarters in Versailles.

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