Bismarck's Alliance Systems: European Diplomacy 1872-1890

Bismarckian Alliance Systems (1872–1890)

Phase 1: The First System (1872–1878)

This phase began with the League of the Three Emperors, signed by the Emperor of Austria, the German Emperor, and the Russian Tsar.

The primary aim of the alliance was to isolate France, preventing it from attacking Germany. However, the alliance was undermined by the rivalry between Russia and Austria over control of the Balkans.

A crisis occurred in 1875 when Russia annexed Bulgaria. To avoid a major conflict, the Treaty of Berlin (1878) was convened, chaired by Bismarck. This treaty successfully removed the Treaty of San Stefano, which had granted Russia control over Bulgaria, forcing Russia to return the territory. This outcome antagonized Russia against both Austria and Germany.

Phase 2: The Second System (1879–1887)

This phase involved three major alliances:

1. The Dual Alliance (1879)

   Signed secretly by Austria, Russia, and Germany. Germany promised to help Austria regarding the Balkans, and in return, Austria would help Germany against France.

2. The Triple Alliance (1882)

   This was a very important alliance. It marked the first time Italy, Germany, and Austria formally allied. Italy's motivation included aspirations to acquire Albania.

3. The Three Emperors' League Renewal

   Bismarck successfully renewed the alliance of the Three Emperors. The three powers promised to remain neutral in the following cases:

   • War between France and Germany.
   • War between Austria and a Balkan power.
   • War between Russia and a Balkan power.

Phase 3: The Third System (1887–1890)

This phase also involved three key agreements:

1. North Africa Treaty (Colonial Agreement)

   This agreement aimed at resolving the crisis in Morocco, which both Germany and France sought to control. Morocco was granted as a protectorate to Spain and France, while Germany received compensation in the form of Cameroon (from France). Peace was achieved through this settlement.

2. Triple Alliance Renewal

   The alliance between Italy, Germany, and Austria was successfully renewed.

3. The Reinsurance Treaty (1887)

   This treaty was intended to be renewed between Germany and Russia. However, following the death of Emperor Wilhelm I, he was succeeded by Wilhelm II. Wilhelm II disagreed with Bismarck's policy and chose not to renew the treaty. Bismarck subsequently resigned. Feeling humiliated, the Russian Tsar then signed an alliance with France.

The Collapse of the System and the Road to War (1890–1914)

In summary, the period from 1890 until 1914 was characterized by shifting alliances. All nations began to distrust each other, creating a climate of intense tension and leading to an arms race.

Two major blocks were formed leading up to the war:

• The Central Powers: Germany, Austria, and Italy (Note: Italy later switched sides).
• The Allied Powers: France, England, and Russia.