1.2 - Anglo-German Rivalry + Outbreak of War Flashcards
Why was Germany keen to prove herself?
Germany was a newly unified nation compared to Britain, and it hadn’t had the same opportunities to build its’ empire.
The Kaiser was keen to be seen as equal to the English.
It introduced a policy of Weltpolitik to rival Britain’s world power.
Why was Britain unintimidated by Germany?
Splendid Isolation during the 19th century meant that Britain felt confident enough in its own strength that it wouldn’t need to form alliances.
However, the Kaiser’s goal to challenge British power and an increasing number of alliances between other nations meant that Britain began to feel too isolated and vulnerable.
What caused the increased military spending?
The developing Anglo-German rivalry. This became the Naval Arms Race.
When was the Two Power Standard introduced?
1889
Her fleet had to be larger than the fleets of the next two powers combined.
How much money did the British Government invest to ensure this was successful?
£20 million
When did Germany begin to build up its own navy?
1898
Conflict in which country caused tension between France and Britain?
Egypt - Britain was concerned about access to the Mediterranean.
What did the Franco-Russian alliance threaten Britain?
East Asian influence
Allied with Japan in 1904.
What was the new type of battleship called?
Dreadnought
When did Germany respond to Britain building the first Dreadnought in 1906?
1908
In 1895, where did the Kiel Canal give the Germany navy direct access to?
North Sea
Which strategy aimed to make Germany the second most powerful naval nation?
Tirpitz Plan
What was Splendid Isolation?
Britain was the richest nation, with the largest empire, all of which was protected by the most powerful navy. This meant that Britain could be self-sufficient; stay out of European affairs; and avoid forming alliances.
Why was there tension in the Balkans?
Imperialism.
After the Balkan Wars, Serbia emerged as the most powerful, having doubled in size. This increased confidence and nationalism, and acted as a threat to AH.
AH had controlled Bosnia since 1908, but many Bosnians and Serbians still resented this.
Tensions remained high between AH and Serbia.
Eventually, the Black Hand Gang were able to assassinate Franz Ferdinand, and this gave AH an excuse to take aggressive action against Serbia.
AH asked for Germany’s support, and they gave it unconditionally (Blank Cheque)
This caused other European powers to get involved due to alliance systems.
This turned a regional conflict into world war.
What triggered the first World War?
The murder of Franz Ferdinand, the Archduke of AH was the trigger for the First World War.
He visited Sarajevo during Vidovdan, a celebration of Greater Serbia’s pat.
