German Empire

The German Empire was a country in central Europe that existed from 1871 until 1918. It was created when many independent German states joined together under one government. This process is called unification, which means bringing separate parts together as one. The empire was proclaimed in January 1871 after a major war with France. Its capital city was Berlin.

Before unification, the German lands were divided into many kingdoms, duchies, and city-states. The strongest of these was Prussia. The Prussian prime minister, Otto von Bismarck, played a leading role in unification. Through diplomacy and wars against Denmark, Austria, and France, Prussia gained influence over other German states. After victory in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870–1871, the German Empire was declared.

The head of the German Empire was called the emperor, or kaiser in German. The first emperor was Wilhelm I, who was also King of Prussia. The empire was a federal state, which means it was made up of smaller states that kept some local powers. These states included kingdoms such as Bavaria and Saxony. The empire had a constitution, which is a set of basic laws that describes how a government works.

The German Empire developed rapidly during its early years. Industry expanded, cities grew, and railways connected different regions. Germany became a major producer of steel, coal, and manufactured goods. The empire also built a strong army and navy. Military service was required for many young men. These developments increased Germany’s influence in Europe.

After Wilhelm I died, his grandson Wilhelm II became emperor in 1888. Wilhelm II supported a more active foreign policy and the expansion of the navy. Relations with other European powers became tense. In 1914, Germany became involved in World War I. The war placed heavy strain on the economy and population. Food shortages and unrest grew during the conflict.

In November 1918, Germany was defeated in World War I. Wilhelm II gave up the throne and went into exile. This act ended the German Empire. A new form of government called the Weimar Republic replaced it. The period from 1871 to 1918 is remembered as the time when Germany first existed as a single, unified empire.