Final answer:
Bismarck appealed to German nationalists by promoting a unified Germany based on German-speaking identity and excluding Austria due to its multi-ethnic nature. This resulted in a 'kleindeutsch' Germany focused on ethnic heritage and common language, which increased national pride and military strength.
Step-by-step explanation:
How did Bismarck describe what Germany had in common with Austria, appealing to nationalists? Otto von Bismarck played a crucial role in shaping German nationalism by emphasizing the need to unite all German-speaking regions. He focused on building a powerful state and excluding Austria from German affairs due to the cultural and linguistic diversity within the Austrian Empire. Bismarck's strategy involved a series of wars to consolidate German territories and affirm Prussia's dominance. This nationalistic fervor centered on ethnic lines, specifically the German language, culture, and heritage.
By the late 19th century, the formation of a unified Germany was achieved after deliberation on whether it should be a 'kleindeutsch' smaller Germany excluding Austria or a 'grossdeutsch' greater Germany that included Austria. The former prevailed, based on German identity and excluding non-German territories. Bismarck's policies distinctly appealed to nationalists by framing Germany's identity around shared language and heritage, in contrast to Austria's more multi-ethnic composition. Bismarck’s successful unification of Germany through militarism and diplomatic prowess marked a significant shift in European balance and sowed seeds for future conflicts.