Examine the influence of German foreign policy on the major European powers between 1890 and 1908.

The question requires that candidates consider the interrelationship between German foreign policy and other European states. Major powers include Britain, France, Russia and Austria-Hungary. Candidates may examine how the change from Bismarck’s foreign policy to one of Weltpolitik influenced other powers. Candidates may examine how the unpredictable nature of German policy in the 1890’s drew Britain out of isolation (Kruger telegram, Naval Laws, colonialism) and into closer relations with France and Russia. German actions in Morocco strengthened this relationship. In the case of France, increased suspicion of Germany led to an alliance with Russia in 1894. France was also keen to seek agreement with Britain in 1904. In the case of Russia, the end of the Reinsurance Treaty led to the Dual Alliance. German support of Austria-Hungary in the Balkans drew Russia towards an alliance with Britain, as well as France. For Austria-Hungary, it could be argued that German support emboldened their Balkan policy (Bosnia 1908). Candidates may argue that a consequence of German foreign policy was that Europe was divided into two increasingly militarized blocs. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported with appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates consider the interrelationship between German foreign policy and the major European powers between 1890 and 1908. Some very good answers were seen to this question. Candidates were able to show the influence of German foreign policy in the relevant period on the major powers especially in the cases of Britain and France. However, some candidates needed more knowledge on the influence of German foreign policy on Russia and Austria-Hungary.