How did the unification of Germany change world history?

When people think of Germany, people often think of the same things: beer, sausage, soccer and of course World War II. In other words, they tend to think of Germany as a country mostly defined by food, sports and the actions of one person....  Adolf Hitler.   However, there are many other facts about Germany that makes this country remarkable in the past and in our present times.  Did you know that as few as 150 years ago, modern Germany did not exist at all? Are you aware of other German political figures besides Hitler that have or will effect world history?  Did you know that Germany has made and continues to make great contributions in music, science and technology?