BigNerds.com

• Category: Biographies
• Words: 958
• Pages: 4
• Views: 44
• Popularity Rank: 701

Kaiser William Ii - Cause Of World War I

Kaiser William II
"Kaiser William II of Germany, 1888-1918, by his personality
and actions, contributed to the outbreak of World War I,"
Discuss.

William II came to power prematurely, on the death of his father, at
the age of 29. He lacked discipline, was arrogant and bad-tempered.
He lacked political experience and maturity and was influenced in his
youth by Hinzpeter who instilled in him the idea that a monarch should
be independent and follow orders from none.

It was obvious to all who were politically aware in Germany in 1890
that a clash would occur between the Chancellor Bismarck, and the
Kaiser. When this clash did occur it was over the issue of German
policy towards Russia. William favoured outright hostility towards
Russia and when he expressed this belief to Bismarck he was met
with disillusionment and disbelief. Bismarck realised that twenty years
of his work was about to be undone by this impetuous imbicile. William
has begun on his road to distruction for Europe.

After the collapse of the renewed Dreikaiserbund in 1884, Bismarck
recognised that there was a possibility that the isolated Russia would
join with France who was in a similar situation. He recognised that this
would be disaster for Germany as it would pose the constant threat of
a two-front war. However, Bismarck convinced Russia to sign the
Reinsurance Treaty and once again managed to insure Germany was
safe. However, in 1890...

You must Login to view the entire paper.
If you are not a member yet, Sign Up for free!

• View Full Essay