What negative impact on the German economy was the fragmentation, What “great people” does he mention?

What negative impact on the German economy was the fragmentation, What “great people” does he mention? Where does he see the advantage of his position?

Frequent duties and numerous customs hindered free trade in Germany, which significantly slowed down the growth of the German economy. It was extremely difficult for the capitalists to develop in such conditions. By the early 1870s. the unification of Italy and Germany was finally completed. The two great European powers, which had been fragmented for many centuries, again became united states. Despite the wars and other conflicts associated with this process, historical justice was restored with the unification of Italy and Germany.