Otto von Bismarck is revered and hated for may reasons.  He is credited with uniting Germany, a feat that had not been accomplished in over 1000 years.  Germany became one of the most powerful nations in Europe and a world-wide industrial giant.  Bismarck introduced social policies that would become a model for many countries around the world in the 20th century.  He became a model for future leaders on how to resolve conflict and reach compromise in order to avoid war. 

     Bismarck also created many problems that lead to major issues in the 20th century.  His wars left France and Austria devastated and eager for revenge.  His drive for treaties forced alliances that would align forces against each other in World War I and World War II.  He created laws that eliminated political opposition and limited freedom of speech.  His lack of morals and compassion caused lasting issues for years to come.

          He was a master statesman who accomplished the impossible by uniting Germany, but did so at the expense of millions of people.