Bismarck's Diplomacy and the Roots of Imperialism

Bismarck's Diplomacy and the Bismarckian System

When Otto von Bismarck achieved the unification of Germany, his foreign policy focused on creating the Bismarckian System. The primary aim was to isolate France, which deeply resented the loss of Alsace and Lorraine during the Franco-Prussian War and posed a potential threat to the stability of the newly unified German state. This system effectively affirmed Germany's hegemony in Europe.

The Bismarckian Alliance Systems

The Bismarckian alliance systems were primarily constructed through the union of Germany, Russia, and Austria-Hungary. Italy later joined some of these arrangements. However, these alliances repeatedly faced challenges and often fell apart due to the intense rivalry between Russia and Austria-Hungary, particularly over dominance in the Balkans.

The Collapse of the Bismarckian System and New Alliances

This intricate political framework ultimately collapsed with the ascension of William II, who chose to dismiss Bismarck from his services in 1890. William II's new foreign policy inadvertently led to the formation of anti-German alliances, most notably the Triple Entente, comprising Britain, France, and Russia. In response, the German emperor instigated conflicts in North Africa and the Balkans, further escalating international tensions.

The Era of Armed Peace (1871-1914)

The period between 1871 and 1914 is often referred to as the "Armed Peace." During this time, Europe experienced almost no major wars, yet military development in various countries progressed significantly. While a superficial peace was maintained, underlying fears and unfulfilled ambitions ultimately led to the breakdown of this fragile stability.

Causes of Colonial Imperialism

The second phase of the Industrial Revolution, characterized by large-scale capital and advanced industrialization, significantly boosted industrialized nations to seek new areas for raw material supply, energy sources, and investment opportunities. This economic imperative led the great European powers, followed later by the United States and Japan, to conquer most of Africa, Asia, and Oceania. Their primary goal was the economic exploitation of these regions, where vast colonial empires were established.

Other Contributing Factors to Colonial Expansion:

• Demographic and Social Factors:

  Rapid European population growth and the increasing use of machinery, which led to unemployment, stimulated emigration to the colonies.

• Political Factors:

  Strained international relations prompted governments to increase their national prestige and power through colonial acquisitions.

• Scientific Factors:

  The desire to explore new territories was strong. Geographical societies, for instance, stimulated widespread interest in unknown locations and scientific expeditions.

• Cultural Factors:

  A prevalent belief in the superiority of the white race led many to consider it a duty to convey the progress of European civilization, culture, and the Christian religion to other parts of the world.

• Technological Advances:

  Colonial expansion was also greatly facilitated by significant progress in transportation and the construction of new means of communication, such as the Suez Canal.