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From the Berlin World / Stories

Berlin and the German Empire

German Empire Imperial capital After the quick victory of an alliance of German states over France in the 1870 war, the German Empire was established in 1871.

Berlin and the German Empire

The full story

Bismarck had fought and succeeded in leaving out Austria, Prussia's long standing competitor, and Prussia became the largest and by far most influential state in the new German Empire, and in turn Germany became the most powerful nation in Europe. Wilhelm I became emperor ("Kaiser"). Bismarck became Chancellor and made Berlin the center of European power politics. The imperial government and the military establishment expanded dramatically, bringing together the landed junker nobility, the rich bankers and industrialists, and the most talented scientists and scholars. In 1884 came the parliament building, the Reichstag. Municipal government was handled in two parts. The ministry of police reported to the Prussian government and took control of crime, markets, and fire fighting. The civil government had a mayor appointed by the city council.

Original World content and translations, shown as supplied. Practical information may need updating.

Berlin / Tours & Travel

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