Prussian Military Reforms

Prussian military reforms, particularly in the early 19th century, transformed the Prussian army into a modern force. Following defeats in the Napoleonic Wars, leaders implemented changes such as mandatory military service for all able-bodied men, which created a larger reserve of trained soldiers. They also emphasized professional training for officers, improved organization, and promoted merit-based advancement. The introduction of effective tactics and better technology, like railways for troop movement, helped the Prussian army become a powerful and efficient fighting force, ultimately leading to significant victories in later conflicts, including the unification of Germany in 1871.