Government and opposition: Kaiser Wilhelm II and his chancellors; Reichstag; struggle between autocracy and democracy
Kaiser Wilhelm II ruled Germany as an autocrat — meaning he held personal power over government. He clashed repeatedly with the Reichstag (Germany's elected parliament) and dismissed chancellors who challenged him.
Real World
When Wilhelm II forced Bismarck to resign in 1890, it was the equivalent of a CEO firing the company's founder mid-expansion — he gained control but lost the institutional expertise that had held everything together.
Exam Focus
When asked to 'assess' autocracy vs democracy, always weigh both Kaiser's personal power AND Reichstag's budget veto as evidence.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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