As a historical expert, I am well-versed in the intricacies of European history and the evolution of nations. I would like to address the question of whether Prussia is modern-day Germany with a comprehensive analysis.

Prussia, a historical state originating in the region of East Prussia, was a significant power in Europe for centuries. It was known for its strong military traditions and efficient bureaucracy. Prussia's rise to prominence began in the 16th century and continued through the 18th and 19th centuries, culminating in its leadership role in the unification of Germany in 1871.

King Friedrich II, also known as Frederick the Great, was a pivotal figure in Prussian history. His reign from 1740 to 1786 saw significant territorial expansion and the strengthening of Prussia's military and administrative systems. Under his leadership, Prussia became a major European power, and its territories included Brandenburg, Pomerania, Danzig (modern-day Gdańsk in Poland), as well as West Prussia and East Prussia. The latter two regions correspond to parts of modern-day East Germany, northern Poland, and a small portion of what was once the Soviet Union.

The territories that made up Prussia were diverse, with different ethnic groups and languages. However, the Prussian state was characterized by its centralized power and the dominance of the German-speaking population, particularly from the region of Brandenburg.

The question of whether Prussia is modern-day Germany is not straightforward. After World War II, the political landscape of Europe underwent significant changes. East Prussia was largely divided between Poland and the Soviet Union, with significant portions becoming part of Poland. The city of Danzig (Gdańsk) also became part of Poland. As a result, the historical territories of Prussia do not align perfectly with the current borders of Germany.

The Federal Republic of Germany, as it exists today, is a successor state to the German Empire and the Weimar Republic, which included Prussia as a constituent state until 1947. However, the current borders of Germany do not encompass all the historical Prussian territories. The reunification of Germany in 1990 brought together the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany) and the German Democratic Republic (East Germany), but it did not include the recovery of all former Prussian lands.

In essence, while modern-day Germany is a successor to the Prussian state in terms of political and historical lineage, it does not cover the entire area that was once Prussia. The cultural and historical legacy of Prussia is still evident in Germany, particularly in the regions that were once part of it. However, the modern German state is a product of the post-World War II settlement and the subsequent reunification, which has resulted in a nation with different borders and a different political makeup than the historical Prussian state.

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Prussia's power grew and in 1772, under King Friedrich II (Frederick the Great), consisted of the provinces of Brandenburg, Pomerania, Danzig, West Prussia and East Prussia (modern day East Germany, northern Poland, and a small portion of the Soviet Union).read more >>