Final answer:
Norman Rich argues that Bismarck's success was founded on patience and timing, emphasizing a pragmatic approach with calculated decisions that favored political power and practicality over idealism or quests for glory.
Step-by-step explanation:
Norman Rich suggests that Otto von Bismarck's success depended on patience and timing. Employing a Realpolitik approach, Bismarck was practical and pragmatic, aligning actions with the current situation rather than idealism. This is exemplified in his decisions during conflicts with neighboring nations, such as choosing not to march on Vienna after defeating Austria, a clear demonstration of his pragmatic approach to maintain Prussia's power without overreaching. He harnessed nationalism to support Prussian wars while skeptically viewing the notion of a unified national spirit.
Bismarck's strategic patience enabled him to judiciously advance his agenda, capitalizing on favorable circumstances and avoiding hasty decisions that could be detrimental in the long term. His focus on building a robust military through prioritized spending allowed him to lay the groundwork for German unification. The deliberate buildup of power and strategic alliances, coupled with reforms to quell socialist movements, illustrated his mastery of Realpolitik.