Count Otto von Bismarck was a German statesman who played a crucial role in the unification of Germany in the 19th century. He served as the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Prussia and later became the first Chancellor of the German Empire. Bismarck is known for his diplomatic skills and his use of realpolitik, a pragmatic approach to politics that prioritized practical outcomes over ideological considerations. Bismarck's policies included a series of wars that ultimately led to the unification of various German states under Prussian leadership. He also implemented social reforms, such as health insurance and pensions, to gain the support of the working class. His legacy includes the establishment of a powerful German state and the complex alliances that shaped European politics in the years following his tenure.