The territorial changes of Germany refer to the changes in the borders and territory of Germany from its formation in 1871 to the present. Modern Germany was formed in 1871 when Otto von Bismarck unified most of the German-speaking states (with the notable exception of Austria) into the German Empire.[1] After the First World War Germany lost about 10% of her territory to her neighbours and the Weimar Republic was formed. This republic included territories to the east of today's German borders.