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How did the Prussian constitution of 1850 organize the kingdom's parliament?
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Prussia
The unification of Germany by Prussia, which brought most of north-central Europe into one kingdom.
The Prussian constitution of 1850, which remained in effect until 1918, established a parliament consisting of two chambers:1
- The First (Upper) Chamber: Officially named the Herrenhaus (House of Lords) in 1854, this body was composed of representatives from the large towns and great landed proprietors, as well as members nominated by the king, some of whom held their seats for life or by hereditary right.1
- The Second (Lower) Chamber: This chamber was elected by all taxpayers, who were divided into three distinct classes based on the amount of taxes they paid.1
While the king appointed the ministers, the constitution required that the budget be agreed upon by both chambers and the king. This structure was often criticized by contemporary liberals for its perceived inadequacy, yet it remained a defining feature of the Prussian political system throughout the 19th century.1