GCSE History Germany 1890-1945 - Democracy + Dictatorship

When did Kaiser Wilhelm II become Emperor of Germany?

1888

When did the Kaiser rule from?

1888-1918

When and What was the Naval Race?

1898 - Germany begins to expand its navy to compete with Britain’s navy.

When did World War One begin?

1914

What type of government did Germany have?

Constitutional Monarchy (NOT a democracy)

What were the powers of the Kaiser?

He appointed the chancellor, he controlled the army, he influenced foreign policy, he could dissolve the Reichstag.

What was the Reichstag?

Parliament elected by men over 25. Both debated and voted on laws drawn up by the Kaiser and ministers.

What were the beliefs of the Social Democratic Party? (SPD)

Believed in socialism - power and wealth should be shared equally among the people.

Disagreed with the power + privileged positions held by land and factory owners.

(1 in 3 Germans voted for them at this time)

Why was The Kaiser an inconsistent ruler?

He wanted to rule personally and disagreed with Bismarck’s cautious policies, believing he could govern Germany better himself.

Why was ruling Germany politically difficult?

Germany had many political parties with different views, making it hard to gain agreement and pass laws.

Why were socialists a threat to The Kaiser?

The SPD wanted more democracy and workers’ rights, which threatened the Kaiser’s autocratic power.

Why was Germany socially divided?

There were tensions between rich and poor, industrial workers and elites, and between conservative and socialist ideas.

How did industrialisation create problems for Germany?

Rapid industrial growth led to urban overcrowding, poor working conditions and strikes, increasing unrest

What was militarism and why was it a problem?

Militarism meant the army had strong influence. This reduced democratic control and encouraged aggressive policies.

What was the Kaiser’s idea of “Weltpolitik”

He aimed to expand Germany’s empire, and transform it into a global superpower.

What were the Navy Laws and when were they introduced?

1898-1912. A huge amount of money was spent to rapidly increase the size of the navy.

Aimed to build up the Navy to rival Britain’s.

It would protect trade and the empire.