Bismarck

Question 1

How was socialism a threat to unity 1871-79?

Answer 1

1878 allegedly attempted to assassinate Kaiser Wilhelm I twice (figurehead to unity). Not share nationalist goals. Bismarck creating ‘enemies to the state’, isolate working classes cause divisions. 1878-99 1500 socialists imprisoned, banned party so moved underground. Resurfaced 1890 with 1 million votes. POTENTIAL THREAT.

Question 2

How was Catholicism a threat to unity 1871-79?

Answer 2

1/3 Germans catholic, split loyalty to German state and Catholic Church. Vatican syllabus of errors 1870, dogma of papal infallibility 1864. Kulturkampf allowed state to inspect catholic schools, banned Jesuit priestly order. Prussian May Laws, Bread basket laws- Z party became stronger 18.6% 1871 to 27.9% 1874.

Question 3

How were political parties (National liberals) a threat to unity 1871-79?

Answer 3

Shared views on unification/free trade until party split 1880 due to tariff bill 1879 which Bismarck wanted. Weakened Reichstag’s support for Bismarck’s policies. 1871 NL 30.1% vote 1874 29.7% but still others party. Tensions as Bismarck not extend Reichstag power, but overall NOT BIG THREAT.

Question 4

How were Bismarck’s actions and the German states a threat to unity in 1871-79?