Part 1 Flashcards
When was Germany unified as a nation?
1871
What does Kaiser mean?
Emperor
Who was Kaiser of Germany from 1890?
Wilhelm II
What new political idea saw a dramatic growth in Germany in the early 20th century?
Socialism
Why did socialism grow in Germany in the early 20th century?
Industrialisation
Worker discontent with low wages
Poor working conditions
What new socialist party became popular amongst workers?
The Social Democratic Party (SPD)
Why was the Kaiser worried about socialism?
Socialists disagreeed with power and privileged positions.
Extreme socialists wanted revolution.
What were the Navy Laws 1898-1912?
To increase size of German navy.
Huge amounts of money spent
Why were the Navy Laws passed?
To help Germany develop and protect its empire.
How were the Navy Laws financed?
Taxation and borrowing.
Taxes were opposed by socialists.
What was Weltpolitik?
The Kaiser’s ‘world policy’ to become a global power. Have an emote to rival Britain’s.
Why did Germany run low on food and supplies in WW1?
British naval blockade
What problems emerged inside Germany as the war dragged on through 1915 to 1917?
Demonstrations and strikes
What epidemic killed thousand of Germans during 1917-18 winters?
Flu
What did General Ludendorff advise the Kaiser to do in October 1918?
Make the country more democratic so Allies would treat Germany fairly.
