German unification refers to the process that led to the formation of the modern nation-state of Germany in 1871. Prior to unification, the region was made up of numerous independent states and principalities, many of which were part of the German Confederation. The movement for unification was driven by a desire for national identity and political unity, influenced by the ideas of nationalism. The key figure in this process was Otto von Bismarck, the Chancellor of the Kingdom of Prussia. Through a series of wars and diplomatic efforts, Bismarck successfully united the German states under Prussian leadership, culminating in the proclamation of the German Empire at the Palace of Versailles on January 18, 1871.