Kaiser Wilhelm II Flashcards
Germany
What powers did the Kaiser have?
- He had the final decision in law making
- He could appoint or fire anyone from government
- Alone, he had the right to appoint or dismiss the Chancellor and his State Secretaries.
What negative characteristics did the Kaiser possess?
- Unstable in mood
- Prone to violent rages
- Lacked ability to govern effectively
- Born with a withered left hand so he struggled as commander-in-chief of the armed forces.
Define ‘weltpolitik’
It means ‘world policy’
What year did the left-wing parliament start to gain more support?
1914
Germany led the world in what industries?
Chemical and Steel Industries
What is the meaning of ‘Authoritarianism’?
- Obedience to authority at the cost of personal freedom
- The lack of concern from the wishes and opinions of others.
In 1912, who became the largest party in the Reichstag?
The Social Democratic Party
How did the government try to improve working class lives?
They introduced pensions and insurance schemes
What were the ‘Navy Laws’?
They expanded the German Navy.
The first Navy Law in 1898 built seven new battle ships
Why were Trade Unions a problem for the Kaiser?
The groups were formed to have the power to influence change. The Kaiser would have to give into these demands.
Why was Socialism a problem for the Kaiser?
Wanted the Kaiser to step down and share his power
