Definition
Otto von Bismarck (1815-1898) was a Prussian statesman who dominated German and European affairs from the 1860s until 1890. He unified Germany through a series of wars and alliances, becoming its first Chancellor. Known as the 'Iron Chancellor,' Bismarck was a master of realpolitik – a pragmatic and ruthless approach to politics. He created a system of alliances that maintained peace in Europe for several decades. Think of him as a strategic genius who played a key role in shaping modern Europe. His legacy remains controversial.