German Rearmament
History: KS3, topic 16.1.6
German Rearmament
As part of his Weltpolitik (world policy), Kaiser Wilhelm II looked to rearm Germany.
Naval expansion
- After 1898 AD, Germany expanded its navy as part of Weltpolitik (world policy).
- It was hoped that this would lead to:
- Industrial growth.
- A larger German empire.
- Increased German patriotism and be a symbol of strength to the world (especially to Great Britain).
Navy Laws
- 1898 AD: First Naval Law. This increased the navy by 7 battleships.
- 1900 AD: Second Naval Law. This doubled the size of the navy to 38 battleships.
- 1906 AD: Third Naval Law. This expanded the navy by another 6 battleships.
Alfred von Tirpitz
- Alfred von Tirpitz, the new Navy Secretary, led the effort to build up the Germany navy.
Conscription
- In the years leading up to 1914 AD, all the Great Powers except Britain introduced conscription to increase the size of their military forces.
- Conscription means requiring certain people (usually men) to serve in the military for a set period of time.
Test yourself on German Rearmament
Navy Laws
Why did Germany expand their navy?
Who was Alfred von Tirpitz?
What was NOT a goal of Weltpolitik?