Who is most closely associated with realpolitik?

Otto Von Bismarck, the German statesman, is most closely associated with realpolitik, a pragmatic approach to politics focused on practical and strategic interests rather than ideological or ethical considerations. He effectively employed realpolitik to unify Germany in the 19th century through diplomacy and strategic wars. Bismarck's approach emphasized power dynamics and the importance of state interests, shaping modern political thought.