Part one, Topic one: Kaiser Wilhelm and the difficulties ruling Germany

Question 1

Why did the Growth of Parliamentary Government make it difficult for Kaiser Wilhelm II to rule Germany?

Answer 1

• Kaiser relied on right wing parties to help pass his laws
• However, these parties began to decline due to rise in left wing parties e.g. Social Democrats (SPD) : SPD’s seats in the Reichstag increased by 314% from 1890-1912
• This put pressure to the Kaiser to bring in more democracy, but he was determined to rule alone as an autocratic leader.

Question 2

How did the Kaiser respond to the Growth of Socialism?

Answer 2

REFORM and REPRESSION
Reform:
–> Kaiser’s First chancellor Caprivi banned employing children
under 13
–> Banned Sunday working
–> In 1900 Chancellor von Bulow introduced social reforms +
pensions + insurance benefits

Repression:
–> By 1894, Wilhelm felt threatened by the SPD, so their
leaders were attacked and put on trial
–> In 1898, Wilhelm made his famous speech saying that
workers who went on strike should be put in prison

Question 3

Why was there a Growth of Socialism when Kaiser Wilhelm II ruled Germany?

Answer 3

The rise of socialism stemmed from industrialisation which saw a great rise in the working class which meant that many people had poor working conditions - so people wanted change which meant a growth in socialism (they supported the SPD)

SPD’s seats in Reichstag rose by 314% from 1890-1912 which posed a threat to the Kaiser

Question 4

What was the Impact of Industrialisation on Germany?

Answer 4

See mind map in notebook for answer :)

Question 5

What was the Domestic importance of the Navy Laws?

Answer 5

See notebook mind map for answer :)

Question 6

Explain the Influence of Prussian Militarism

Answer 6

• Prussia was a very dominant German states, Prussian Generals had a huge influence on the Kaiser, which cause problems and meant they were practically running the country by 1918
• Influence from Prussian Generals lead to the Navy Laws
• Meant a growth in the military which was very expensive, the Kaiser needed Reichstag approval for this

Question 7

Explain the economic changes that Germany experienced from 1890-1914