germany under the kaiser

• German Empire


  Unified in 1871, composed of 25 states with a federal constitution.
• Bundesrat


  Federal Council with 58 representatives from 25 states, introduced laws to Bundestag.
• Bundestag


  Federal parliament with 397 deputies, voted on laws from Bundesrat.
• Chancellor


  Head of government, had authority over Bundesrat in the German Empire.
• Kaiser


  Emperor of Germany, head of the armed forces, controlled foreign policy, and appointed the Chancellor.
• Prussian Nationalism


  Influential force post-unification, dominated military, legal system, and civil service.
• Junkers


  Powerful Prussian landholders controlling the army and representing few interests.
• Industrialisation in Germany


  Rapid growth in modern industries post-1871 unification, leading to economic dominance.
• Demographic Changes


  Shift to urban living, 60% in cities by 1910, significant population growth in major cities.
• German Social Democratic Party (SPD)

  Largest party by 1912, representing industrial workers, faced opposition from the government.
• Social Reforms in Germany

  Introduced to improve working conditions, health care, and restrict child labor.
• Navy Expansion under Weltpolitik

  Policy to make Germany a world power through naval growth and overseas empire.
• Admiral von Tirpitz


  Key figure in expanding the German navy, established the Navy League for support.
• Domestic Impact of Navy Expansion

  Increased patriotism, government support, but led to budget deficits and debt.