Strengthening Germany

 

THE BIG IDEA

Germany increased its power by building up its industry and military.

 

After Germany unified in 1871, it became the leader of industry in Europe. Before unification, many states had big factories and fine railroads. The new nation built upon this progress. Germany had plenty of coal and iron, both needed by industries of the late 1800's. A population boom provided Germans to work and to buy products.

 

Chancellor Otto von Bismarck had great plans for Germany. Foreign goals included keeping France weak and isolated and building ties with Austria and Russia. At home, he set out to crush all threats to the empire. He feared that Catholics put their church before their state and launched an anti-Catholic campaign. The moves against Church were met with outrage, and Bismarck ended his attack. The Chancellor also feared that the growing power of socialists could lead to revolt. He banned their meetings. When workers ignored the bans, Bismarck set up new programs to meet their needs. He felt that happy workers would not turn to socialism.

 

In 1888, William II took the place of his grandfather as Kaiser. The new ruler wanted total power and, in 1890, he shocked Europe by asking Bismarck to step down. William II stopped all moves towards democracy. He made sure his people had good services, including schools that taught students to obey their Kaiser. He funded the largest army in Europe and built up the navy. Then he set out to gain colonies in other lands.

 

The German Industrial Giant

 

I. Government support of Industry and economic progress.

 

II. Large supplies of coal and iron

 

III. Population boom; growing supply of workers and consumers

 

IV. Earlier progress in seperate states

 

V. Use of science to develop new products and processes

 

The new German empire wanted economic strength as well as military power.

 

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