Social developments: class hierarchy; elitism and culture of militarism; condition of working people
Kaiserreich Germany had a rigid social pecking order. A military-obsessed elite sat at the top, while millions of industrial workers lived in poverty with little political power.
Real World
A Junker officer like Paul von Hindenburg could command armies and shape policy, while a wealthy Hamburg merchant — however rich — was still socially inferior simply because he lacked a noble title.
Exam Focus
Don't just describe the class hierarchy — explain how militarism actively reinforced it, linking Junkers to the army officer corps.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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