GCSE POD - The Influence Of Prussian Militarism Flashcards
Who led the unification of German states in 1871
Otto Von Bismarck
What importance did Otto von Bishmarck have in Germany
- he was the chancellor of Prussia
- he unified the German states in 1871
What was the king of Prussia promised to be named
Kaiser of Germany
Why is Prussia the largest German state
Otto Von Bishmarck was from Prussia and wanted it to be the largest to dominate the states
What state was militarism meant to become dominant within German society and politics
Prussian
How was the significance of the Prussian army reinforced
- Through military oath of allegiance
- state education system
Who did the army swear an oath to
Kaiser
How were soldiers seen in the Prussian army
- high social status
- recognised as superior
- treated with respect in streets
What is national conscription
Where lots of soldiers signed up for the army wanting to be treated with respect and have high social status etc
How long did national conscription last
2-3 years
What are the features of national conscription
- lasted 2-3 years
- installed military values
- importance of authority
How was Prussian military values conducted in education
- in German state schools, military education was emphasised
- caused children to grow up with ideals of authoritarian, conservative and Prussian militarism
- children taught to obey kaiser with respect and admiration
How did the political sphere grow in Prussia
It mirrored the values of kaiser Wilhelm II
True of False: the military had little respect for democracy
True - since its what the kaiser believed in
True or False: High positions in military where given by heritage not skill
True
Was the army a conservative right or left wing force
Conservative right wing force
How did Prussian military preserve the interests of the elite
Glorifies traditional values
No modernisation
What did chancellors lack when opposing military
Lacked authority to oppose military chiefs
How was the Prussian army’s power enhanced
Being separated from the reichstag meant it had its own budget and had the ability to declare martial law - this meant they had the power to intervene and take over running of the country
True or False:
The Prussian army did not have the power to intervene and take over running of the country
False
