Frederick the Great’s reign significantly transformed Prussia into a modernized and powerful state, particularly through his efforts in the economy, administration, and judicial reforms. He implemented a system of indirect taxation, protected Prussian industries with high tariffs, and fostered domestic trade by minimizing restrictions. Under his leadership, Prussia expanded its industrial and agricultural capabilities, especially following the acquisition of Silesia and the conclusion of the Seven Years’ War.
Frederick reformed Prussia’s bureaucracy, allowing men not of noble birth to enter the judiciary and civil service, and he abolished most uses of judicial torture. He was a proponent of freedom of speech and press, modernized the currency system to stabilize prices, and took significant steps in education reform, laying the foundation for compulsory primary education.
However, Frederick did not attempt to dismantle the social order dominated by the Junkers, the Prussian landed nobility. While he tried to protect peasants from the harsh treatment of landlords, the Junkers maintained significant economic and military influence, limiting Frederick’s ability to reform the feudal system.
Frederick also introduced new agricultural methods, draining swamps to create farmland, and popularized crops like potatoes and turnips, earning him the nickname “The Potato King.” Although largely non-practicing, Frederick was religiously tolerant, though Catholics were often excluded from high-ranking positions. His selective policies toward Jews and Catholics reflected both tolerance and discrimination depending on the circumstances. Additionally, Frederick was a patron of the arts, an accomplished musician, and hosted notable figures like Johann Sebastian Bach at his court.
While Frederick’s reign elevated Prussia to a European power, he remained committed to maintaining the traditional class structures, particularly the privileges of the Junker class.
