History Paper 1- Germany, Kaiser Wilhelm II Flashcards
What age did Wilhelm become Kaiser?
29 , in 1888
Who was Kaiser related to?
grandson of Britain’s Queen Victoria & the cousin of Britain’s future king, George V.
Who was the most powerful country in 1888?
Britain - had the largest empire, dominated world trade, had a navy
How big was Britain’s navy?
twice the size of its two closest rivals added together.
What did Wilhelm dream of doing to Germany? What did he do first?
making Germany as great as Britain - building up
Germany’s industry
Who was Wilhelm supported by?
rich, powerful German businessmen
when did Germany companies dominate Europe? How? What industries?
1913 - Germany was producing more iron and steel and as much coal as Britain - electrical goods and chemicals
How was Wilhelm described?
very energetic with a strong, outgoing personality, charming and kind, but also impatient and rude.
What would he do to minsters if they didn’t do what he wanted?
sack them
When did He sack Otto Von Bismarck?
1890
Where did Wilhelm spend most of his youth?
in the army
What did Wilhelm think of militarism?
it was the key to a successful country
How was Germany’s army? Who did their navy rival?
strong - rivaled Britain
