Prussianism comprises the practices and doctrines of thePrussians, specifically themilitarism and the severe discipline traditionally associated with thePrussian ruling class.[1][2]
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Prussianism had its origins with the rise to the throne ofFrederick William I in 1713, who laid the foundations for a professional and stable army; a legacy that was continued by his sonFrederick II the Great, who formed an organized and effective army, and later by the latter's nephewFrederick William II.
Prussianism was based on theconservative militaristic caste of the PrussianJunkers, having as a fundamental basis a vertical, centralized,paternalistic and iron discipline. Its ideological underpinning consisted of a combination of the markedly aristocratic, warmongering, andexpansionistnationalist ideology,traditionalism, conservatism, andmilitarism of the time. It was this philosophy that largely influenced the attitude of Prussia and laterGermany in historical processes such as theNapoleonic Wars, theunification of Germany and theFirst World War.
Sociologically, in addition, Prussianism was expressed in the so-called "Prussian virtues", influencing various relevant aspects ofGerman culture.
Among the most important theorists and exponents of Prussianism areKarl von Clausewitz,Otto von Bismarck, andOswald Spengler.
Prussianism also had an influence inSouth America, during the 1920s, 1930s, and 1940s, especially in the military circles ofChile,Argentina,Colombia, andBolivia. In Chile, relations with Prussia date back to the end of the 19th century when a German mission, under the command ofEmil Körner, began the process of modernization and professionalization of theChilean Army. These contacts were maintained and intensified throughout the first half of the 20th century, leading to the "Prussianization" of Chile's military officers, NCOs, and soldiers. This influence also extended to theChilean Navy andChilean Air Force, as evidenced during theGreat Military Parade of Chile. In Argentina and Bolivia the Prussian model was also used as the basis for military professionalization in those years.
