Deck 4: Nationalism & Militarism Flashcards
(3 cards)
Essay Plan 1: The Rise of Nationalism in Germany (1871-1914)
Introduction:
Judgement: Nationalism played a crucial role in shaping Germany’s political and social landscape between 1871 and 1914, driving both domestic policies and foreign ambitions.
Context: Following the unification of Germany in 1871, nationalism emerged as a defining feature of German identity, fostering unity among the newly consolidated states while also fueling imperial ambitions.
Paragraph 1 (PEEL):
Point: The unification of Germany under Bismarck in 1871 created a strong sense of national identity, which was central to the development of German nationalism.
Evidence: The creation of the German Empire through the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871), celebrated as a moment of national pride and unity.
Explanation: The victory over France and the subsequent unification under Prussian leadership fostered a sense of pride and loyalty towards the German state, cementing nationalism as a dominant force.
Mini Conclusion: Nationalism was crucial in consolidating the newly unified German Empire, providing a unifying identity for diverse German-speaking peoples.
Paragraph 2 (PEEL):
Point: Nationalism played a significant role in shaping German foreign policy and imperial ambitions, particularly through the pursuit of a “place in the sun.”
Evidence: The pursuit of colonial expansion in Africa and the Pacific, particularly after 1884 when Germany began establishing colonies in Africa (e.g., German East Africa).
Explanation: Nationalism fueled Germany’s desire to compete with other European powers, particularly Britain and France, for overseas colonies and global influence.
Mini Conclusion: Nationalism drove Germany’s imperial ambitions, leading to increased tensions with other European powers and contributing to the development of an aggressive foreign policy.
Paragraph 3 (PEEL):
Point: Nationalism also influenced internal politics, with increasing support for militarism and national pride among the population.
Evidence: The popularity of military parades, the cultivation of national pride through state-sponsored celebrations, and the rise of nationalist movements such as the Pan-German League.
Explanation: Nationalism became intertwined with militarism, as Germans celebrated military power and sought to expand their influence both at home and abroad.
Mini Conclusion: Nationalism strengthened the militaristic culture within Germany, fostering an environment where military expansion and preparedness were highly valued.
Conclusion:
Nationalism was a driving force behind both Germany’s unification and its later imperial ambitions. It fostered national unity and pride, while also laying the groundwork for the country’s aggressive foreign policy and militarism.
Essay Plan 2: The Role of Militarism in Germany (1871-1914)
Introduction:
Judgement: Militarism was a central feature of German society and politics from 1871 to 1914, influencing both domestic policies and the country’s approach to international relations.
Context: The German military played a central role in the formation of the empire and became increasingly important in political and social life throughout the period.
Paragraph 1 (PEEL):
Point: The Prussian military tradition became deeply ingrained in the new German Empire, and the military elite held significant influence over politics.
Evidence: The role of the Prussian military elite in the creation of the German Empire, with figures like Helmuth von Moltke playing key roles in Bismarck’s unification strategy.
Explanation: The military had long been a key part of Prussian society, and after unification, this influence carried over into the German Empire, shaping political decision-making and national identity.
Mini Conclusion: The military tradition of Prussia strongly influenced the political culture of the German Empire, establishing militarism as a dominant force in German society.
Paragraph 2 (PEEL):
Point: The German military was central to both national pride and foreign policy, particularly through the development of an aggressive military doctrine.
Evidence: The Schlieffen Plan (1905) and the focus on military preparedness, including the expansion of the army and navy under Kaiser Wilhelm II.
Explanation: Germany’s military planning reflected a belief in military power as central to national strength. The Schlieffen Plan, designed to avoid a two-front war, became a symbol of German militarism and preparedness.
Mini Conclusion: Militarism became deeply embedded in Germany’s approach to both domestic policy and international relations, contributing to an increasingly aggressive stance.
Paragraph 3 (PEEL):
Point: The growth of militarism also influenced social and cultural life, with the military becoming a source of national pride and a central element of education.
Evidence: The widespread presence of military values in German schools, youth organizations like the German Youth Movement, and the glorification of military heroes in popular culture.
Explanation: Militarism became part of the national consciousness, with military service seen as a vital part of duty and patriotism. The emphasis on discipline, loyalty, and national pride was reflected in German education and cultural norms.
Mini Conclusion: Militarism shaped not just political decisions but also everyday life in Germany, fostering a culture of militaristic pride and preparedness.
Conclusion:
Militarism was a defining feature of German politics and society between 1871 and 1914. It was central to the country’s foreign policy, social structure, and national identity, shaping both the political climate and cultural values.
Essay Plan 3: The Impact of Nationalism and Militarism on German Foreign Policy (1871-1914)
Introduction:
Judgement: Nationalism and militarism were key drivers of German foreign policy between 1871 and 1914, contributing to the country’s aggressive stance in Europe and its eventual involvement in World War I.
Context: The unification of Germany and the rise of both nationalism and militarism under Kaiser Wilhelm II led to an expansionist and confrontational foreign policy.
Paragraph 1 (PEEL):
Point: Nationalism and militarism combined to create a foreign policy focused on securing Germany’s place as a global power.
Evidence: Germany’s expansionist policies, including the pursuit of colonies in Africa and the Pacific, and the building of a large military navy.
Explanation: Driven by nationalist pride and a desire for global influence, Germany sought to compete with Britain and France for colonies, using militarism as a tool to strengthen its international position.
Mini Conclusion: Nationalism and militarism motivated Germany’s desire for colonial expansion, contributing to tensions with other European powers.
Paragraph 2 (PEEL):
Point: The growth of militarism led to an arms race and the formation of alliances that heightened tensions in Europe.
Evidence: The Triple Alliance (Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy) and the arms race with Britain and France, particularly with regard to naval and military development.
Explanation: Germany’s emphasis on military strength led to an escalating arms race, with countries like Britain and France seeking to match Germany’s growing military might. The resulting alliances further divided Europe into opposing camps.
Mini Conclusion: Germany’s militaristic policies contributed to the formation of alliances and the intensification of the arms race, heightening the risk of conflict in Europe.
Paragraph 3 (PEEL):
Point: Nationalism and militarism also contributed to Germany’s policy of Weltpolitik, which aimed to assert Germany’s dominance on the world stage.
Evidence: The construction of the High Seas Fleet and the aggressive diplomacy under Kaiser Wilhelm II, aimed at challenging British naval supremacy.
Explanation: Weltpolitik, or “world policy,” was driven by Germany’s belief in its own strength and its desire to secure a larger role in global affairs. This was expressed through military buildup and challenging the status quo, especially Britain.
Mini Conclusion: Germany’s nationalism and militarism were central to Weltpolitik, driving the country’s ambitious and confrontational foreign policy.
Conclusion:
Nationalism and militarism were crucial in shaping German foreign policy between 1871 and 1914. These forces led to expansionist policies, the formation of alliances, and an increasing arms race, ultimately contributing to the outbreak of World War I.
