Prussian Conservatism 1815-1856

The book examines the nexus between political and religious thought within the Prussian old conservative milieu. It presents early-nineteenth-century Prussian conservatism as a phenomenon connected to a specific generation of young Prussians. The book introduces the ecclesial-political 'party of the Evangelische Kirchenzeitung' (EKZ), a religious party within the Prussian state church, as the origins of Prussia's conservative party post-1848. It traces the roots of the EKZ party back to the experiences of the Napoleonic Wars (1806-15) and the social movements dominant at that time. Additionally, the book analyses this generation's increasing politicization and presents the German revolution of 1848 and the foundation of Prussia's first conservative party as the result of a decade-long struggle for a religiously-motivated ideal of church, state, and society. The overall shift from church politics to state politics is key to understanding conservative policy post-1848. Consequently, this book shows how conservatives aimed to maintain Prussia's character as a Christian and monarchical state, while at the same time adapting to contemporary political and social circumstances. Therefore, the book is a must-read for researchers, scholars, and students of Political Science and History interested in a better understanding of the origins and the evolution of Prussian conservatism, as well as the history of political thought.

Autorentext
Laura C. Achtelstetter is a political scientist from Erlangen (Germany). She taught as an Adjunct Lecturer in Political Science at Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg and the University of Augsburg (Germany). She received her PhD in history from the University of Cambridge (UK).

Inhalt
The Conservative Milieu 1815 to 1856.- A Youth Between Defeat and Liberation 1806 to 1830.- Conservative Interpretation of Royal Church Policy.- Restoration, Revolution and Counter-Revolution 1830-50.- 'The Bond That Stands Above the Will of the Spouses' - Marriage Law Reform(s).- Conclusion: All That Is Left.