Germanh, 1890-1945: Democracy and Dictatorship Flashcards
Who controlled the government in Germany from 1890 to 1914?
Kaiser Wilhelm II
Wilhelm II had extensive powers and appointed the Chancellor and other officials.
What was a characteristic of Kaiser Wilhelm II’s governance?
Moody and unstable
His inconsistent governance was marked by violent rages.
What type of government developed in Germany during this period?
Parliamentary government
Several major political parties existed, leading to coalition governments.
What was the political landscape in Germany before 1914?
Coalition governments without a majority
Right-wing parties were strong, while left-wing parties gained support from industrial workers.
Which state was more powerful than others in Germany?
Prussia
Prussia had two-thirds of the population and half the territory.
What was Germany’s industrial status by 1914?
Leading world producer in chemical and steel industries
Germany produced twice as much steel as Britain and one-third of the world’s electrical goods.
What was the population of Germany in 1914?
68 million
This was an increase from 40 million in 1871.
What issue arose due to the increasing population in Germany?
Food imports increased
Farmers could not supply all the food needed for the growing population.
What social tensions existed in German society?
Demands for social reforms
The socialist movement grew, supported by industrial workers seeking reform.
What percentage of seats did the Social Democrat Party hold in the Reichstag in 1912?
About 30 percent
Support for the left-wing Social Democrat Party increased during this time.
What was the status of the army and navy in Germany?
High status with support for expansion
The army in Prussia swore obedience to the Kaiser.
What did Kaiser Wilhelm II want to achieve with the navy?
Expand the navy to match Britain’s
The Navy Laws permitted the building of more battleships.
What was one cause of the First World War related to German policy?
Desire for an overseas empire
Kaiser Wilhelm II wanted Germany to have an empire like France and Britain.
Fill in the blank: Under Kaiser Wilhelm II, Germany was becoming a _______ industrial power.
leading
This reflects Germany’s industrial growth during this period.
List two strengths in German society before 1914.
- Strong industrial base
- Growing population
These factors contributed to Germany’s status as a leading industrial power.
List two weaknesses in German society before 1914.
- Political instability
- Social tensions
These issues hindered effective governance and social cohesion.
What were the Naval Laws?
Legislation allowing the construction of more battleships
These laws aimed to strengthen the German navy.
What is the main task of Question 1 in your exam?
To compare the content of two interpretations.
What should you do with Interpretations A and B in Question 1?
Read carefully, understand what is said, and use knowledge to make inferences.
How does Interpretation B differ from Interpretation A regarding Kaiser Wilhelm II?
Interpretation B focuses on concerns about Wilhelm’s lack of tact.
What positive traits are mentioned in Interpretation A about Wilhelm II?
Vitality, openness to new ideas, diversity of interests, personal charm.
What was a notable criticism of Wilhelm II mentioned in Interpretation B?
His absolute unconsciousness of how his speeches and actions affect others.
What example illustrates Wilhelm II’s lack of tact in Interpretation B?
His remarks about the King of Italy and the Queen.
What does Question 5 of your exam focus on?
How a key development affected a situation or a group of people.