The Kaiserreich, 1871–1914 key terms

Kaiser

The title of the German Emperor, who held significant power in the political structure of the German Empire.

Chancellor

The head of government in the German Empire, responsible for executing laws and managing the administration, appointed by the Kaiser.

Reichstag

The Reichstag was the parliament of the German Empire, responsible for debating and voting on laws, although its power was limited by the Kaiser and Chancellor.

Bismarckian System

The Bismarckian System refers to the diplomatic strategies and alliances established by Otto von Bismarck to maintain peace in Europe and isolate France.

Autocracy

A system of government in which one person has absolute power, often seen in the rule of Kaiser Wilhelm II.

Social Democracy

A political ideology that advocates for political democracy alongside social justice, prominently represented by the SPD in the Kaiserreich.

Kaiserreich

The German Empire from 1871 to 1918, characterized by rapid industrialization and political changes.

Industrialization

The process of developing industries in a country or region, leading to economic and social transformations.

Militarism

A belief in building up strong armed forces to prepare for war, which influenced German society and politics during the Kaiserreich.

Social Darwinism

A theory that applied the concept of 'survival of the fittest' to human societies, often used to justify social hierarchies and imperialism in the Kaiserreich.

Autocracy

A system of government in which one person has absolute power, as seen in the Kaiserreich under Kaiser Wilhelm II.

Industrialization

The process of developing industries in a country or region, which significantly transformed the German economy by 1914.