This study has presented a different characterization of the delegates working within the Frankfurt Assembly during the Revolutions of 1848. The evidence suggests that instead of the delegates being naïve and idle in their pursuit for legitimacy, the assembly was systematic in its endeavor to achieve sovereignty and unify the German states. Through the correspondences of Andrew J. Donelson, this study revealed the competency of the delegates to act as the governing authority of the various German states. The assembly successfully negotiated with the United States and acquired a fully armed war steamer that would benefit the newly created Reichsflotte (German Navy). Establishing a system of defense would protect any legislation produced. The delegates should not be faulted with the ultimate rise of authoritarianism, but rather celebrated for their serious effort made towards democracy. / The Frankfurt Parliament -- The mad year -- The United States of Germany -- New legacy. / Department of History