Germany Before the First World War Flashcards
What year was Germany unified?
1871
Who was Kaiser of Germany from 1888 until 1918?
Wilhelm II
What was the name of the German parliament, established under the constitution of the Empire?
Reichstag
Which political party was the largest party in the Reichstag by 1912?
Social Democratic Party
How much power did the Kaiser have over Germany?
- He was the head of state and the Commander in Chief of the army. Could make decisions about foreign policy
- Reichstag elected by the people, but he could dismiss the Reichstag’s decisions. Weakness meant anger and unrest
- He appointed the chancellor, meaning they had to follow his wishes
- Focus on military put pressure on economy - high taxes. Meant anger and unrest
When did Germany Unify?
1871
What was Germany made of before it unified?
25 independent states
Who unified Germany?
Otto von Bismarck
How did Bismarck unify Germany?
By fighting 3 wars with Denmark, Austria, and France
Who became king of Germany in 1888?
Wilhelm II
Why was the unification significant?
Because it made Germany a powerful nation which changed the balance of power across Europe
Why did Germany unify in 1871?
- Some German states feared an invasion from France or Russia
- Prussia had won the Franco-Prussian War and it’s territory expanded, increasing it’s power
What was Weltpolitik, and what was it’s aim?
- Means ‘world policy’
- Meant to achieve Germany’s ‘place in the sun’ - expanding its empire and gaining respect
When did the Reichstag form?
1871
How did the Kaiser want to achieve Weltpolitik?
More colonies in Africa
- Germany was viewed as weak during the Scramble for Africa in 1885. Only 4 colonies
- Kaiser wanted a fair share
Build up armed forces
- A large navy to gain colonies
- A strong army to become respected
What was the Reichstag?
- 397 representatives voted every 5 years to form government
- Different parties
- All men over 25 voted
What was the Bundesrat?
- 58 representatives sent from the German states
- Prussia (Wilhem’s) had 17 of 58 seats
What were some issues with the government system in 1871?
The Kaiser had ultimate control in Germany
- Could ignore/sack chancellor
- Could dissolve the Reichstag - they had no real power
- He had to approve all the laws the Bundesrat created
- He held power to declare war and treaties
The federal nature of the government
- Each state controlled their taxes - Kaiser struggled to raise taxes
- Prussia was dominant in politics (17/58 seats)
