The fact that the Germans and Japanese accomplished as much as they did in the 19th century is a testament to their national character. Sowell has a chapter in this book just on the Germans, but it's really just an excerpt from his book "Immigration And Culture" in which he goes in insane detail about just how the Germans were able to make such a massive accomplishment during the industrial revolution.

Doesn't hurt when you've got Bismark on your side, either.