By 1914 the domestic and international position of Germany had sharply deteriorated - Discuss this comment on the policies pursued by Bismarck's successors.

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By 1914 the domestic and international position of Germany had sharply deteriorated.

Discuss this comment on the policies pursued by Bismarck's successors.

Germany pre 1890

* Germany's position pre-1914, both internationally and domestically, was very powerful and strong which is why the deterioration had such a great affect.

* Bismarck, who was chancellor of Germany from 1871-1890, was one of the greatest statesman ever. He had a profound influence on Germany in the nineteenth century.

* Germany did not exist when he became Prussian chief minister in 1862. When he left office in 1890 it was Europe's strongest state. This did not happen by any chance.

* It had much to do with his diplomatic skill. He manipulated situations and worked hard to make the outcomes as desirable as possible.

* In doing so he won the trust of few but the respect of virtually everybody he encountered.

* After he died, it was unfortunate for both Europe and Germany that after 1890 the creation of Germany was in the hands of less skilful men.

Domestic policy

* During the reign of Bismarck he helped to modernise and consolidate Germany.

* He also managed to find the right balance of forces acting within Germany.

* Caprivi's following reforms in 1890's were set up by Bismarck's work with the National-Liberals.

* Socialism, which became a great force by 1914 was pioneered by him. His policies assisted German economic development.

* The fact that he remained in office for nineteen years shows his consistent political skills.
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Foreign policy

* Foreign policies were determined by alliances which were not always stable.

* The Dual Alliance with Austria, which was meant to control Austria, finally dragged Germany into war in1914.

* His acquisition of colonies had negative results. It not only cost the German tax payer a lot of money but also alienated Britain.

* However, Bismarck's influence is often exaggerated. It was more due to Germany's military strength rather than his diplomatic skill which created the basis of her power.

* After France, Napoleon Bonaparte, had been ...

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