Germany before WWI, timeline during the war. Flashcards
Why and when was Germany created?
Germany was created in 1870 as a consequence of the victory of the German stat s in the Franco-Prussian war.
What was Germany’s government like before WWI?
Germany was ruled by a Kaiser (Emperor). However it did have a Riechstag (parliament) and a chancellor (unelected prime minister).
What was the Kaiser’s role?
The Kaiser could appoint or sack chancellors and dissolve the Reichstag. Also could declare war.
What were the industries in Germany like before WWI?
Germany had well developed modern industries,e.g., steel, chemicals, electrical engineering but also had large traditional farming communities.
What was the religion in Germany before WWI?
Germany was mainly Protestant but had a significant catholic population (40%).
Germany’s population?
1/3 were under the age of 15 in 1890.
Main causes of WWI?
Militarism
Alliances
Imperialism
Nationalism
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When was WWI and when did it end?
August 1914 - 19th January 1919
Which countries were in which alliances?
Allies: Britain, France, Russia and USA (USA joined in April 1917)
Central Power: Germany, Austria-Hungary and Turkey.
What was the British Naval Blockade?
In Autumn 1918, food shortages in Germany took place. The Royal Navy followed a policy of ‘distant blockade’, barring entrance to the English Channel and the North Sea.
What did Prince Max of Boden do?
In October 1918, Prince Max of Boden formed a new government with members of the Reichstag (parliament).
What was the result in a new government?
The Kaiser (emperor) lost control to the army, navy and parliament. 9th November 1918 Kaiser Wilber abdicated and fled to Holland.
What did Prince Max do?
Prince Max approached President Wilson (USA) wanting to end war looking for peace.
What happened on 11th November 1918?
The chancellor of the newly declared German Republic, Friedrich Elbert, accepted the armistice of president Wilson’s 14 points
When did Wilson put the points forward and why?
In January 1918 as a basis for peace negotiations. (Assumed by all combatants that all states would be involved in the peace process).
