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What was Bismarck's main goal for the newly unified German Empire after 1871?

To consolidate the new state, ensuring political stability through a conservative order and preventing internal and external threats.

Describe the political structure of the German Empire (1871-1918).

A constitutional monarchy with a powerful Kaiser (emperor) who appointed the Chancellor. The Reichstag (parliament) was elected by universal male suffrage but had limited power over the government.

How did Bismarck attempt to counter internal threats to stability during his chancellorship (1871-1890)?

Through policies like the Kulturkampf (against the Catholic Church) and the Anti-Socialist Laws, aiming to suppress perceived enemies of the state.

What was 'Weltpolitik' and how did it influence Germany's quest for stability under Kaiser Wilhelm II?

Weltpolitik (world policy) was Kaiser Wilhelm II's aggressive foreign policy aimed at securing Germany's 'place in the sun' as a global power. It led to increased military spending, naval expansion, and ultimately contributed to international tensions, potentially undermining long-term stability.

What was Bismarck's main goal for the newly unified German Empire after 1871?

To consolidate the new state, ensuring political stability through a conservative order and preventing internal and external threats.

Describe the political structure of the German Empire (1871-1918).

A constitutional monarchy with a powerful Kaiser (emperor) who appointed the Chancellor. The Reichstag (parliament) was elected by universal male suffrage but had limited power over the government.

How did Bismarck attempt to counter internal threats to stability during his chancellorship (1871-1890)?

Through policies like the Kulturkampf (against the Catholic Church) and the Anti-Socialist Laws, aiming to suppress perceived enemies of the state.

What was 'Weltpolitik' and how did it influence Germany's quest for stability under Kaiser Wilhelm II?

Weltpolitik (world policy) was Kaiser Wilhelm II's aggressive foreign policy aimed at securing Germany's 'place in the sun' as a global power. It led to increased military spending, naval expansion, and ultimately contributed to international tensions, potentially undermining long-term stability.

Why was the rise of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) a significant challenge to political stability in Wilhelmine Germany?

The SPD advocated for democratic reforms and socialism, growing to become the largest party in the Reichstag by 1912. Its rise challenged the authoritarian, aristocratic power structure and often led to political deadlock.

What role did industrialisation and urbanisation play in Germany's political stability 1871-1919?

Rapid industrialisation created a large working class, empowering the SPD and leading to demands for social and political change that the conservative government often resisted, causing social unrest and political tension.

How did Germany's alliances contribute to or detract from its political stability prior to WWI?

Bismarck's complex alliance system (e.g., Dual Alliance, Reinsurance Treaty) initially helped maintain peace and Germany's security. However, Wilhelm II's abandonment of some alliances and pursuit of Weltpolitik alienated powers like Britain and Russia, contributing to an unstable European balance of power.

What was the Burgfrieden and how long did it last during WWI?

The Burgfrieden (castle peace/party truce) was a political truce declared at the outbreak of WWI, where political parties (including the SPD) agreed to suspend domestic disputes to support the war effort. It largely disintegrated by 1916-1917 due to war fatigue, economic hardship, and calls for peace and reform.

What events led to the collapse of the German Empire and the end of the quest for political stability in 1918?

Military defeat in WWI, the Kiel Mutiny of sailors, the subsequent November Revolution, and widespread worker/soldier councils led to the abdication of Kaiser Wilhelm II and the declaration of a republic.