German Quest for Colonies, Berlin Conference and Kaiser Wilhelm II. Flashcards

1
Q

What was the German quest for colonies like in 1884-1885?

A

Bismarck acquired an empire x5 the size of the German Reich, he viewed colonies as an unaffordable expense but changed his mind.

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2
Q

Why did Bismarck change his mind on colonies?

A

He needed to protect trade in South West Africa and the South Seas.

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3
Q

What happened in 1884 regarding African colonies?

A

The Berlin Conference. 14 European nations and the USA gathered to divide Africa’s resources. No representatives were invited.

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4
Q

What was a major task in the Berlin Conference of 1884?

A

To bring ‘civilization’ to Africa through Christianity and trade.

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5
Q

What was Great Britain’s policy on colonies and how did this affect Germany?

A

‘Splendid isolation’, this policy made it easy for Germany to pursue imperialism.

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6
Q

What were the driving factors in Bismarck’s decision to pursue colonies?

A

Public opinion, the National Liberal Party and the Kolonialverien all were in favour of colonization. Thus, Bismarck saw colonies as a unifying force and a distraction from domestic issues.

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7
Q

When did Kaiser Wilhelm II come to power and what drastic change did he make in 1889?

A

The Kaiser came to power in 1888 at the age of 29. In 1889 he replaced Bismarck with Leo von Caprivi

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8
Q

What changes did Caprivi make to foreign policy?

A

He took foreign policy on a “new course” known as “Weltpolitik”, this would overturn the alliances made by Bismarck.

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9
Q

What were Caprivi’s aims with Weltpolitik?

A

He hoped to make Germany a colonial power with a navy and an overseas empire to distract from domestic issues.

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10
Q

What was Kaiser Wilhelm’s quote directed at the people?

A

“All of you know nothing. I alone know something.”

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11
Q

What did N. Ferguson say about the Kaiser?

A

“He wanted … to be as big a figure on the world stage.”

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12
Q

What was Bismarck’s quote regarding alliances?

A

“The key was to be in a group of three in any dispute involving the five great European powers.”

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