How did Prussian rulers pay for their large standing army? through trade with the Hapsburgs of Austria through the forced collection of taxes from peasants through the forced collection of taxes from other kingdoms through trade with Poland and France

Through the forced collection of taxes from peasants

Explanation:

Prussia emerged from the 18th century onwards as an increasing force to be reckoned in Europe and eventually became the leading German state after defeating Austria. This allowed them to unify German States to form Germany.

They had a large standing army that was an effective force because they were well paid and promoted on merit. The money for their salaries came from forced collection of taxes from peasants who even though had more rights in Prussia, were still required to help the Prussian state through taxes.

B

Explanation: