The German Confederation was a loose association of German-speaking states formed in 1815 after the Congress of Vienna. It aimed to promote cooperation among its 39 member states, which included major powers like Austria and Prussia. The Confederation was primarily focused on issues of trade, security, and maintaining peace in the region. Despite its intentions, the German Confederation struggled with internal conflicts and differing political interests among its members. It was ultimately dissolved in 1866 following the Austro-Prussian War, leading to the establishment of the North German Confederation under Prussian leadership, which paved the way for the unification of Germany.