Germany by 1914 Flashcards
1
Q
What was the political condition of Germany when it was first unified in 1871?
A
forward-thinking:
- establishment of a representative Reichstag
- the granting of universal manhood suffrage
2
Q
What did Bismarck’s resignation show about the political state of Germany in 1890?
A
how vulnerable the position of the chancellor is
3
Q
What was Wilhelm II’s government afraid of?
A
- socialism
- pace of industrialisation
- an obstructive Reichstag (grew more obstructive by constant militant focus)
4
Q
What was the most popular political party by 1914?
A
SPD (Social Democratic Party)
5
Q
What was the economic position of Germany like?
A
- time of rapid and successful industrialisation
- expansion of both old and new industries
- wider availability of modern technology
- expansion of urbanisation
6
Q
What was the social condition of Germany like?
A
- 40% increase in population
- German workers mostly better off
- jobs were plentiful
- real wages rose
- working conditions were often poor
- overcrowding in some areas
- Prussian Junkers remained elite
- Culture of militarism remained
- increased gap between the elites and the masses
