History Y11 (1871-???)

When was Germany unified?

1871

Who became Kaiser of Germany in 1871?

Wilhelm I

What was the role of the Kaiser?

The Kaiser was Germany's emperor and head of state, with significant political and military power. He had major influence over foreign policy and the appointment of the Chancellor

What was the Reichstag?

Germany's elected parliament. It could debate and approve laws and the budget, but its power was limited by the Kaiser and other institutions

What was the Bundesrat?

A federal council representing the German states, with considerable power over legislation

Which political party became increasingly popular before WW1 and why?

The Social Democratic Party (SPD). Became popular as Germany's growing industrial working class supported its policies, including better working conditions and greater political and social reform

What was the Centre Party?

A political party that mainly represented Catholic interests

How did Germany's economy change between 1871 and 1914 and what industries were important to cause this?

Germany experienced rapid industrial growth, becoming one of the world's major industrial powers. Coal, iron and steel, as well as engineering and other modern industries caused this

Why was coal important to Germany's industrialisation?

Coal provided energy for factories, railways and other industries

What happened to Germany's population between 1871 and 1914?

It increased greatly, partly because of industrialisation and economic growth

What was an important feature of German society before WW1?

Germany remained a largely Christian society, with Protestantism and Catholicism being the main religions

What political rights did women have in Germany before WW1?

Women could not vote in national elections.

How did industrialisation affect German society?

It led to the growth of towns and cities and a larger industrial working class

Why was the German military important before WW1?

Germany had a very powerful army, which was an important part of the country's international strength and national identity

How did Germany strengthen its navy before WW1?

It carried out a major naval expansion, particularly under Kaiser Wilhelm II

Why did Germany expand its navy?

To increase Germany's international power and challenge Britain's naval dominance

What was militarism?

The belief that military strength and military values were very important to a country's power and society