The measuring unit of cloth in Germany was the "Ell" or "Ellenmaß." This unit was commonly used in the textile industry for measuring the length of cloth. The Ell was a traditional German measurement that varied in length depending on the region and time period.

History of the Ell:
- The Ell can be traced back to the medieval period when it was used as a standard unit of measurement for various goods, including cloth.
- Different regions in Germany had their own variations of the Ell, resulting in inconsistencies in the measurements.
- Over time, attempts were made to standardize the Ell, and in the 19th century, the Prussian government introduced a standardized version known as the "Preußische Elle" or Prussian Ell.

Length of the Ell:
- The length of the Ell varied depending on the region and time period.
- In general, the Ell was approximately 60 centimeters (23.6 inches) long, although it could range from 57 to 70 centimeters (22.4 to 27.6 inches) in different areas.
- The Prussian Ell was defined as 57.6 centimeters (22.7 inches).

Usage of the Ell:
- The Ell was primarily used in the textile industry for measuring cloth.
- It was commonly used by tailors, weavers, and merchants to determine the length of fabric needed for garments and other textile products.
- The standardized Ell provided a common measurement reference, ensuring consistency in the industry.

Transition to Metric System:
- With the introduction of the metric system in the late 19th century, the traditional units of measurement, including the Ell, were gradually phased out.
- The metric system provided a more standardized and universal approach to measurement, making it easier for international trade and commerce.
- Today, cloth is typically measured in meters or centimeters in Germany, in line with the metric system.

In conclusion, the measuring unit of cloth in Germany was the Ell or Ellenmaß. It varied in length depending on the region and time period, with the Prussian Ell being a standardized version. The Ell was primarily used in the textile industry for measuring cloth, but with the transition to the metric system, it has been replaced by meters and centimeters as the standard units of measurement.