Kaiser Wilhelm II introduction Flashcards
When was Kaiser Wilhelm II born?
1859
Who were the Kaiser Wilhelm II parents?
Queen Victoria’s oldest daughter, crown prince
What was Kaiser Wilhelm II beliefs and personality like?
- Personification of German nationalism
- Rejected mother’s progressive English values
Class based view on monarchy and society- believes he has right to rule and the divine right of kings
Which countries allied against Wilhelm II and why?
- Britain, France and Russia felt threatened by his power, allied against him
Who was Philipp zu Eulenburg?
one of the few people at court around the Kaiser that wasn’t connected to the Military, close friend to Kaiser
Why did the Kaiser stop associating himself with Eulenberg?
Due to Eulenburg’s homosexuality allegations
How did the Eulenberg Scandal show that there wasn’t an autocracy in Germany at the time?
the story reached the press, wasn’t autocracy, Kaiser felt pressure + political weakness
How did King George V feel about war?
Felt a European war was imminent
How did Wilhelm II feel about war?
Initially wanted it but then Wilhelm was no longer sure he wanted war as it became more clear there would be a conflict.
- Russia in the east, France in the west-> Kaiser wanted war ASAP, then changes his mind (his word is unstable)
How did the German people see the Kaiser?
- Saw him as Germany (very nationalist + patriotic)
What best describes Wilhelm II style of rule?
- Autocratic- wanted to rule and reign
Saw the Reichstag as an ‘Apehouse’ (Not democratic)
What was Wilhelm II attitude to England?
- Rejected their progressive values
- Wanted to surpass England, in a rivalry
Admiral of the British Fleet
What were the Kaiser’s goals for Germany?
- Turn Germany into a strong sea power and improve the navy
Create a Naval building programme
