German Foreign Policy
History: KS3, topic 16.1.2
Germany's Foreign Policy
Kaiser Wilhelm II wanted to strengthen Germany's position in the world and make the German Empire bigger. This caused conflict between Germany and Britain, which had its own large Empire.
Military power
- Kaiser Wilhelm II wanted to strengthen Germany and for it to have its own colonies. At the time, this was known as having its own ‘place in the sun’ (overseas colonies).
- Prussia, which had become part of Germany had a strong military. The Kaiser realised that he could use Prussia's army to grow overseas.
Weltpolitik
- The Kaiser’s foreign policy was influenced by military advisors and focused on making Germany the greatest country in the world.
- To do this, the Kaiser pursued a policy of Weltpolitik (world policy).
The Scramble for Africa
- Colonial tensions between Germany and Great Britain became visible during the Scramble for Africa.
- The Scramble for Africa was a mad rush to capture land in Africa in the 1890s.
Why did people want land in Africa?
- Africa was such a valuable continent because of its supply of gold and diamonds.
Test yourself on German Foreign Policy
What was Kaiser Wilhelm II's main aim?
Which of the following was Kaiser Wilhelm II's chosen foreign policy?
What was the Scramble for Africa?
What caused tension between Britain and Germany in Africa prior to WW1?