As a demonstration of Weltpolitik the first Moroccan crisis is a good example of its weakness – heavy-handed, aggressive methods combined with uncertainty of aims. As a result of the crisis, Britain felt threatened and introduced the triple entente, (Britain, Franca and Russia) so that ‘If it is necessary to check Germany it could then be done.’
The Bosnian Crisis (1908-09) – how did this help to cause war?
The annexation of Bosnia by Austria-Hungary in October 1908, led to international complications. The Bosnian crisis in 1908-1909 sprang from the fact that Serbia believed that she must prevent the consummation of annexation by Austria-Hungary. Soon after the proclamation of annexation, Serbia lodged a vigorous protest with the powers, demanding compensations to assure the independence of Serbia. Serbia looked to Russia for support against the Austrians. So Izvolsky’s (Russian foreign minister) unorthodox diplomacy was added to the complexities. In return for Austria’s acceptance of Russian desire to control the straits, Izvolsky agreed to the annexation of Bosnia. However this was betrayal of Russia’s friendship with Serbia. Serbia demanded compensation and Austria then declared war on Serbia. The German government said they would support Austria-Hungary in force. Serbia, threatened by Austria and acknowledging Germans support also, backed down and agreed to ‘live at peace’ with Austria Hungary.
The Bosnian crisis exacerbated Balkan problems and created much alarm in Europe. Russia felt humiliated (betrayal of Serbia and Izvolskys crazy plan), and Serbia was embittered (for having to accept Austria’s annexation).
(A naval Race (1905-1913)
This intense competition created significant tensions between the nations, and poisoned relationship possibilities between Britain and Germany. The intensity to expand was further fueled following each major crisis, which developed during the period 1905-1913 (Bosnian Crisis, Moroccan crisis, Agadir crisis). Britain hardened its position towards Germany and increased its Navy as Germany increased theirs. Germany ignited the arms race possibly because of fear of “encirclement” but Britain saw it as a threat.
Germanys aims in producing a naval race:
- Wanted status/prestige – recognized as a ‘superpower’
- Could be used as a tool to threaten and defend
- Wanted freedom from Britain’s restraint capabilities.
The new liberal government (in power in 1906) perceived Germany then as a real threat. Britain’s attempts to negotiate with Germany are dismissed and this pushes Britain towards France and Russia for allies even more than the Moroccan crisis already provoked. Britain is confused as to why Germany is building its army so vastly and assumes it must be for want of a war with Britain.)
The Second Moroccan (Agadir) Crisis (1908-12)
The French were not satisfied with their partial control of Morocco since 1906. France wanted to have complete control of the country. After 1906 France steadily increased her influence in the country. In 1908, the French installed a pro-French Sultan on the throne. In May 1911, the French forces occupied Fez, the capital of Morocco, in order to suppress a rising against the pro-French Sultan.
The Germans didn’t like the French amount of control over Morocco – they wanted to intimidate the French into paying substantial territorial compensation in return for recognition of a French protectorate over Morocco. So Germany tried to scare the French by sending a gunboat to Agadir. The British feared that Germany would make Agadir a German naval base, so Britain protested against Germany and backed up France to fight against Germany. Because of British support of France, Germany gave in. What began as a Franco-German colonial squabble became a major Anglo-German confrontation. Britain recognized that Germany was a significant threat – so puts its fleets and military assistance on alert.
The Agadir crisis also had harmful consequences for the peace of Europe. The British, French and Russian governments were alarmed by the aggressive attitude of Germany’s new policy Weltpolitik. Something small had become very serious – a possible trigger for war. Germany was acting as a serious threat to Britain’s security, and Britain and France were very nervous because Germanys actions were unpredictable.
This is because Weltpolitik is opportunistic – wait for the moment and jump in without considering consequences. Germanys actions were unpredictable and unstable with no clear strategy.
