Otto Eduard Leopold Furst von Bismarck-Schonhausen Biography

Birth of Otto Furst von Bismarck

Called on by the Magdeburg estate to represent it at the United Diet

Bismarck is elected to the Vereinigter Landtag

Bismarck marries Johanna von Puttkamer

Makes maiden speech outraging the Assembly by his reactionary views

Called on by the Magdeburg estate to represent it at the United Diet

Elected Member of Erfurt Parliament, a Prussian representitive

Bismarck is elected to the Landtag

Appointed one of Prussia's representatives at the Erfurt Parliament, an assembly of German states that meets to discuss plans for union, but only in order to oppose it more effectively

The Erfurt Parliament fails to bring about unification because of the opposition of Prussia & Austria

The Erfurt Parliament fails to bring about unification because of the opposition of Prussia & Austria. The Erfurt Parliament discusses German unification but Bismarck is opposed. Appointed one of Prussia's representatives at the Erfurt Parliament, an assembly of German states that meets to discuss plans for union, but only in order to oppose that bodys proposals more effectively

Bismarck opposes the unification of Germany arguing Prussia would lose its independence in the process

After a dispute over Hesse Prussia is humiliated and forced to back down by Austria in the so-called Punctation of Olmutz

After a dispute over Hesse Prussia is humiliated and forced to back down by Austria in the so-called Punctation of Olmutz

After a dispute over Hesse Prussia is humiliated and forced to back down by Austria in the so-called Punctation of Olmutz

A plan for the unification of Germany under Prussian leadership proposed by Prussia's Minister President Radowitz is abandoned

Bismarck challenges Austria's restored influence by allying Prussia with other German states

Frederick William appoints Bismarck as Prussia's envoy to the Diet of the German Confederation in Frankfurt

Bismarck challenges Austria's restored influence by allying Prussia with other German states

Frederick William appoints Bismarck as Prussia's envoy to the Diet of the German Confederation

Frederick William appoints Bismarck as Prussia's envoy to the Diet of the German Confederation

Becomes convinced that Prussia would have to ally itself with other German states in order to countervail Austrias growing influence, accepts of the notion of a united German nation

Remains neutral hoping to win Russian friendship at a later date

Remains neutral hoping to win Russian friendship at a later date

Appointed Prussia's Ambassador to the Russian Empire

William takes over the Government of Prussia as Regent, he replaces Bismarck as Envoy in Frankfurt and makes Bismarck Prussia's Ambassador of the Russian Empire

The Liberals have a majority in the Landtag & William dissolves it

Outlines his general policy for the next 10 years for army reform & German unification. Meets Napolean who sounds Bismarck out on a possible alliance betwen Germany & France. Meets Disraeli & plays the role of a future Premier

Meets Napolean who sounds Bismarck out on a possible alliance betwen Germany & France

Appointed Ambassador of France

The Landtag refuses to carry out reforms of the Army

Promises to manage Parliament & put through reforms in defiance of Parliament. Persuades William not to abdicate & ends the Constitutional Crisis

Saves the King from the Liberals in the House of Deputies over army expansion

Persuades William not to abdicate & ends the Constitutional Crisis

Promises to form a Government & put through reforms in defiance of Parliament

Appointed Minister President of Prussia

Promises to manage Parliament & put through reforms in defiance of Parliament

Says great issues of the day will be decided by "iron & blood". Asks the Landtag to increase the Army Budget

Bismarck makes a famous speech to the Budget Committee of the Prussian Chamber of Deputies in which he expounds on the use of "iron and blood" to achieve Prussia's goals

Renewal of friendship with Russia

Bismarck retains power because he had the support of Wilhelm who fears a liberal ministry. A liberal coalition led by the Progressive Party, Fortschrittspartei, wins 2/3 of the votes to the House of Deputies

Bismarck's supporters do poorly in the elections in which a liberal coalition (whose primary member was the Progress Party) win over two-thirds of the seats in the House.

The House makes repeated calls to the King to dismiss Bismarck, but the King supports him as he feared that if he dismissed him, a liberal ministry would follow.

Conflict arose due to the passing of the November Constitution, which integrated the Duchy of Schleswig into the Danish kingdom in violation of the London Protocol

Conflict arose due to the passing of the November Constitution, which integrated the Duchy of Schleswig into the Danish kingdom in violation of the London Protocol

Denmark's November Constitution causes outrage among the Duchies' German population and a resolution is passed by the German Confederation at the initiative of the Prussian Prime Minister Otto von Bismarck, calling for the occupation of Holstein by Confederate forces

Bismarck issues an edict resricting the freedom of the press

Bans all publications intended to bring the crown, state or Church into disrepute

The House makes repeated calls to the King to dismiss Bismarck, but the King supports him as he feared that if he dismissed him, a liberal ministry would follow. Bismarck's supporters do poorly in the elections in which a liberal coalition (whose primary member was the Progress Party) win over two-thirds of the seats in the House

Allies with Austria after declaration of Danish union over Schleswig-Holstein

The House of Deputies passes a resolution declaring that it could no longer come to terms with Bismarck, the King dissolves the Diet, accusing it of trying to obtain unconstitutional control over the ministry

Allies with Austria after the Danish King declares unification with Schleswig-Holst

Allies with Austria after declaration of Danish union over Schleswig-Holstein

Allies with Austria after declaration of Danish unity over Schleswig-Holstein

Saxon and Hanoverian troops march into Holstein on behalf of the Confederation

Prussia & Austria invade Holstein & Lauenburg

The Danish President Carl Christian Hall drafts the 'November Constitution' to link Schleswig more closely to the Danish kingdom, he sparks German protests, and troops of the German Confederation occupy Holstein and Lauenburg

The Danish President Carl Christian Hall drafts the 'November Constitution' to link Schleswig more closely to the Danish kingdom, he sparks German protests, and troops of the German Confederation occupy Holstein and Lauenburg

Conflict arose due to the passing of the November Constitution, which integrated the Duchy of Schleswig into the Danish kingdom in violation of the London Protocol

Bismarck issues an ultimatum to Denmark demanding that the November Constitution should be abolished within 48 hours

The Danish President Carl Christian Hall drafts the 'November Constitution' to link Schleswig more closely to the Danish kingdom, he sparks German protests, and troops of the German Confederation occupy Holstein and Lauenburg

The Danish President Carl Christian Hall drafts the 'November Constitution' to link Schleswig more closely to the Danish kingdom, he sparks German protests, and troops of the German Confederation occupy Holstein and Lauenburg

The Conference of London leads to a ceasefire, which soon breaks down, as as there is not an agreement on territorial oundaries

Seeing that the truce was ending, Austria and Prussia arrived at a new agreement, that the war was to completely separate the duchies from Denmark

The conference in London breaks up without having arrived at any conclusion

The preliminaries of a peace treaty are signed, the King of Denmark renounces all his rights in the duchies in favour of the Emperor of Austria and the King of Prussia

The preliminaries of a peace treaty are signed, the King of Denmark renounces all his rights in the duchies in favour of the Emperor of Austria and the King of Prussia

The preliminaries of a peace treaty are signed, the King of Denmark renounces all his rights in the duchies in favour of the Emperor of Austria and the King of Prussia

In the Treaty of Vienna Denmark cedes Schleswig, Holstein and Lauenburg to Prussia and Austria

The war ends with the Treaty of Vienna and Denmark's cession of the Duchies of Schleswig, Holstein and Lauenburg to Prussia and Austria

In the Treaty of Vienna Denmark cedes Schleswig, Holstein and Lauenburg to Prussia and Austria

The war ends with the Treaty of Vienna and Denmark's cession of the Duchies of Schleswig, Holstein and Lauenburg to Prussia and Austria

In the Treaty of Vienna Denmark cedes Schleswig, Holstein and Lauenburg to Prussia and Austria

The war ends with the Treaty of Vienna and Denmark's cession of the Duchies of Schleswig, Holstein and Lauenburg to Prussia and Austria

In the Treaty of Vienna Denmark cedes Schleswig, Holstein and Lauenburg to Prussia and Austria

The war ends with the Treaty of Vienna and Denmark's cession of the Duchies of Schleswig, Holstein and Lauenburg to Prussia and Austria

Schleswig Holstein swears allegiance to Prussia & joins the Prussian armed forces

Under the "February Conditions" Schleswig & Holstein enter the Zollverein. Schleswig Holstein swears allegiance to Prussia & joins the Prussian armed forces

Created Graf von Bismarck-Schonhausen

Under the "February Conditions" Prussian troops garrison a Confederate fortress

Under the "February Conditions" Schleswig & Holstein enter the Zollverein

Under the "February Conditions" Schleswig & Holstein enter the Zollverein

The new, largely conservative House is on much better terms with Bismarck than previous bodies; at the Minister Presidents request, it retroactively approved the budgets of the past four years, which had been implemented without Parliamentary conse

Raises a budget for the 1st time since 1862. Admits that the budget is unconstitutional in a bid to pacify the Liberals

Admits that the budget is unconstitutional in a bid to pacify the Liberals

The new, largely conservative House is on much better terms with Bismarck than previous bodies; at the Minister Presidents request, it retroactively approved the budgets of the past four years, which had been implemented without Parliamentary conse. In the elections to the House of Deputies the liberals suffer a major defeat, losing their large majority

The election is held during the Battle of Konigratz. Has a sufficient majority to raise an army reform budget for the 1st time in 5 yrs. Conservative victory in the chamber of 142

The North German Confederation had nearly 30 million inhabitants, of which eighty percent lived in Prussia

No need to guarantee accountability of Minister's to Parliament. Gets Bill of Indemnity passed

The Zollverein is effectively ended in 1866 with the advent of the Austro-Prussian War

Bismarck seeks advice from conservative and democratic politicians and presents a draft constitution to the other state Governments. It is his intention to make the new federal state look like a confederation in the tradition of the German Confederation

The North German states agree to form a federal state based on the Prussian proposals of June 1866. They agree to have a Parliament elected to discuss a draft constitution

Prussia and a large number of North and Central German states sign a Bundnis (alliance). The treaty created a military alliance for one year

The North German states agree to form a federal state based on the Prussian proposals of June 1866. They agree to have a Parliament elected to discuss a draft constitution

The North German Confederation is the alliance of 22 German states (Augustbundnis)

The North German Confederation is the alliance of 22 German states (Augustbundnis)

Luxemburg becomes neutral & demilitarized, under the protection of the European powers

A new organisation with the same name was brought about in 1867 when peace was restored, the new Zollverein is stronger, in that no individual state had a veto

Luxemburg becomes neutral & demilitarized, under the protection of the European powers

The North German Confederation allows free movement of citizens within the territory of the Confederation

The North German Confederation establishes a common passports

The North German Confederation establishes a common postal system

To solidify Prussian hegemony, Prussia and several other North German states joined the North German Confederation. King Wilhelm I serves as its President, and Bismarck as its Chancellor. From this point on begins what historians refer to as "The Misery of Austria", in which Austria serves as a mere vassal to the superior Germany, a relationship that was to shape history up to the two World Wars

A new organisation with the same name was brought about in 1867 when peace was restored, the new Zollverein is stronger, in that no individual state had a veto

Prussia and the other north German states prepare the election of a North German Parliament. This konstituierender Reichstag is elected in February 1867 based on state laws

Prussia and the other north German states prepare the election of a North German Parliament. This konstituierender Reichstag is elected in February 1867 based on state laws

Creates a Customs Parliament including the south German States

Creates a Customs Parliament including the south German States

Schleswig-Holstein, Kausenburg and Mecklenburg join the Zollverein

The Customs Union fails, "no man is humiliated who does not feel himself humiliated"

The North German Confederation allows equal rights for the different religious denominations

The North German Confederation establishes unified measures and weights (with the obligatory introduction of the metric system)

The Customs Union fails, "no man is humiliated who does not feel himself humiliated"

Informed by Charles Anthony that Leopold had been sounded out for the Spanish throne. Charles Anthony asks Bismarck to tell William to decide Leopolds Spanish succession

Benedetti is told by Bismarck that Leopold had refused the Spanish throne

The publication of the Emms telegram rallies southern German states

Abolishes the Catholic Dept of the Prussian Ministry of Public Worship & Education

Appointed Imperial Chancellor of the 1st Reich

The Ems Dispatch, sometimes called the Ems Telegram, incited France to declare the Franco-Prussian War in July 1870.

The Ems Telegram was sent from the Prussian Kaiser, Wilhelm I, to his Prime Minister Otto von Bismarck which, when published (and as anticipated by Bismarck) precipitated the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71.

The actual dispatch was an internal message from the Prussian King's holiday to Otto von Bismarck in Berlin, reporting demands made by the French ambassador; it was Bismarck's released statement to the press that became known as the Ems Dispatch.

The name referred to Bad Ems, a resort spa east of Koblenz on the Lahn river

The telegram's contents outlined the details of a disagreement between Wilhelm and the French ambassador concerning the succession to the Spanish throne. Bismarck subtly doctored the telegram to give the impression that each side had insulted the other.

The Centre Party win 57 seats, their new popularity shocks Bismarck into action

The Ems Dispatch, sometimes called the Ems Telegram, incited France to declare the Franco-Prussian War in July 1870.

The Ems Telegram was sent from the Prussian Kaiser, Wilhelm I, to his Prime Minister Otto von Bismarck which, when published (and as anticipated by Bismarck) precipitated the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71.

The actual dispatch was an internal message from the Prussian King's holiday to Otto von Bismarck in Berlin, reporting demands made by the French ambassador; it was Bismarck's released statement to the press that became known as the Ems Dispatch.

The name referred to Bad Ems, a resort spa east of Koblenz on the Lahn river

The telegram's contents outlined the details of a disagreement between Wilhelm and the French ambassador concerning the succession to the Spanish throne. Bismarck subtly doctored the telegram to give the impression that each side had insulted the other.

Bismarck's released statement of the telegram to the press becomes known as the Ems Dispatch

The Ems Dispatch, sometimes called the Ems Telegram, incites France to declare the Franco-Prussian War in July 1870

The name refers to Bad Ems, a resort spa east of Koblenz on the Lahn river

Bismarck's released statement of the telegram to the press becomes known as the Ems Dispatch

Originally a message from the Prussian King to Otto von Bismarck in Berlin, reporting demands made by the French Ambassador

The Ems Dispatch, sometimes called the Ems Telegram, incites France to declare the Franco-Prussian War in July 1870

The Ems Telegram is sent from the Prussian Kaiser, Wilhelm I, to his Prime Minister Otto von Bismarck

The telegram's contents outline details of a disagreement between Wilhelm and the French ambassador concerning the succession to the Spanish throne. Bismarck doctors the telegram to give the impression that each side had insulted the other

When the Ems Telegram is published (as anticipated by Bismarck) it precipitates the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71

The North German Confederation becomes a member of the Zollverein, the German customs union of 1834

The North German Confederation establishes a common penal code

Sets up a schools inspectorate in Prussia

Leopold is offered the Spanish throne for a 2nd time, Bismarck recommends acceptence

Prussian victory establishes German unity

Wilhelm has Abeken telegram Gramonts terms to Bismarck who prints it

The North German Confederation becomes a member of the Zollverein, the German customs union of 1834

Bavaria & Baden mobilize under the terms of the 1866 military treaties

Issues a memo saying a Hohenzollern is Spain would tie down 2 French Divs

William & the Crown Prince oppose Charles Anthonys Spanish succession. Urges Charles Anthony to accept the Spanish crown

Publishes alliances with south German states, German Armies are under Prussian control

Publishes alliances with south German states, German Armies are under Prussian control

Persuades Leopold to accept the Spanish offer of the throne. Leopolds acceptance of the offer of the Spanish throne is telegramed to Madrid

The Government of French Emperor Napoleon III voiced concern over a possible Spanish alliance with the Protestant House of Hohenzollern that ruled the Kingdom of Prussia, protested against it, and hinted about a war.

The French were not yet satisfied with this and demanded further commitments, especially a guarantee by the Prussian king that no member of any branch of his Hohenzollern family would ever be a candidate for the Spanish throne

Following the protests by France, Leopold had withdrawn his acceptance in July 1870. This was already considered a diplomatic defeat for Prussia.

In early 1870, the German Prince Leopold, of the Roman Catholic cadet branch Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen, had been offered the vacant Spanish throne.

The French were not yet satisfied with this and demanded further commitments, especially a guarantee by the Prussian king that no member of any branch of his Hohenzollern family would ever be a candidate for the Spanish throne

The Government of French Emperor Napoleon III voiced concern over a possible Spanish alliance with the Protestant House of Hohenzollern that ruled the Kingdom of Prussia, protested against it, and hinted about a war.

In early 1870, the German Prince Leopold, of the Roman Catholic cadet branch Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen, had been offered the vacant Spanish throne.

Following the protests by France, Leopold had withdrawn his acceptance in July 1870. This was already considered a diplomatic defeat for Prussia.

The offer to Leopold becomes public when the French press expose it to the world

Meets Gorchakov & secures an understanding with Russia

William compels Charles Anthony to renounce the Spanish throne for his son Leopold. Charles Anthonys renunciation of the throne is "a humiliation worse than Olmutz"

Bismarck uses Abekens telegram as provocation of war

The Landwehr is mobilized

War is declared against France. Germany is supported by England & Russia who see Napoleon III emulating Napoleon I

Sets out as a major-general with William to command the armies in the field

Present in battle as a Major General, victory leads to the German fall of Paris

Favre requests an honourable peace from Bismarck who demands Alsace, Metz & Strasburg

Favre requests an honourable peace from Bismarck who demands Alsace, Metz & Strasburg

Baden & Hesse join the Confederation of Germany

Germany is united under a single Confederation

Reconciles William & Francis Joseph & discusses alliance with Beust

Legislation requires the consent of the Bundesrat, the federal council of deputies

The Chancellor serves the Emperor's first minister and as presiding officer of the Bundesrat, the upper chamber of the German Parliament appointed by the Emperor

Defends Catholic interests against Bismarck's Kulturkampf

Emperor. The 1866 North German Constitution becomes the 1871 Constitution of the German Empire with some adjustments. Appointed Imperial Chancellor of the German Empire

The German Empire is the name used in English to describe the first 47 years of the German Reich when it was a semi-constitutional monarchy: beginning with the unification of Germany and proclamation of William I of Prussia as German

The new empire has a Parliament with two houses, the lower house, or Reichstag, is elected by universal male suffrage, however, the original constituencies drawn in 1871 were never redrawn to reflect the growth of urban areas.

A National Government, Reichstag, is elected by all males over 25 by secret ballot

Bismarck's intention is to create a constitutional facade which would mask the continuation of authoritarian policies

Executive power is vested in the Kaiser who is assisted by a Chancellor responsible only to him

Legislation requires the consent of the Bundesrat, the federal council of deputies

Most of the German Empire is formed of Prussian-led Protestant states of the former North German Confederation

Prussia uses a restrictive three-class voting system in which the richest third of the population can choose 85 percent of the legislature, assuring a conservative majority

The 1866 North German Constitution becomes the 1871 Constitution of the German Empire

The Chancellor is a one-man cabinet responsible for all state affairs while State Secretaries (officials in charge of fields as finance, war, foreign affairs, etc.) act as unofficial portfolio ministers

The Chancellor is always the Prime Minister of Prussia

The Chancellor serves the Emperor's first minister and as presiding officer of the Bundesrat, the upper chamber of the German Parliament appointed by the Emperor

The Reichstag has the power to pass, amend or reject bills but only the Chancellor can initiate legislation

The unified Germany under Chancellor Otto von Bismarck is called Deutsches Reich, the official name of Germany until 1945

The unified Germany under Chancellor Otto von Bismarck is called in German Deutsches Reich, remains the official name of Germany until 1945

Among the measures taken to reduce the influence of the Catholic Church was the addition in 1871 to the German Criminal Code (Strafgesetzbuch), which threatened clergy who discussed politics from the pulpit with two years of prison

The Kanzelparagraph remains in force until 1953, several religious orders like the Jesuits remained banned from the German Empire, confiscated properties were not returned, discrimination against the Catholic minority continued in Civil Service.

The article is dubbed the Kanzelparagraph (from the German Kanzel - "pulpit"). The 1871 Kanzelparagraph introduced a series of sanctions against Catholicism imposed by Bismarck throughout 1875.

The new empire has a Parliament with two houses, the lower house, or Reichstag, is elected by universal male suffrage, however, the original constituencies drawn in 1871 were never redrawn to reflect the growth of urban areas

William makes Bismarck responsible for conducting the peace with France

Created Furst von Bismarck (Prince Bismarck)

A National Government, Reichstag, is elected by all males over 25 by secret ballot

The new empire has a Parliament with two houses, the lower house, or Reichstag, is elected by universal male suffrage, however, the original constituencies drawn in 1871 were never redrawn to reflect the growth of urban areas

Among the measures taken to reduce the influence of the Catholic Church was the addition in 1871 of þ 130a to the German Criminal Code (Strafgesetzbuch), which threatened clergy who discussed politics from the pulpit with two years of prison

A National Government, Reichstag, elected by all males over 25 by secret ballot

Alsace-Lorraine join the Zollverein after being acquired by Germany following the Franco-Prussian war

The federal constitution establishes a constitutional monarchy with the Prussian King as the bearer of the Bundesprasidium, or head of state

Laws can only be enabled with the consent of the Reichstag (a Parliament based on universal male suffrage) and the Federal Council (a representation of the states)

The North German Confederation adopts a new constitution, which was written under the title of a new "German Confederation" but already gave it the name "German Empire"

The federal constitution establishes a constitutional monarchy with the Prussian King as the bearer of the Bundesprasidium, or head of state

The North German Confederation adopts a new constitution, which was written under the title of a new "German Confederation" but already gave it the name "German Empire"

Laws can only be enabled with the consent of the Reichstag (a Parliament based on universal male suffrage) and the Federal Council (a representation of the states)

The North German Confederation adopts a new constitution, which was written under the title of a new "German Confederation" but already gave it the name "German Empire"

The south German states of Baden, Hesse-Darmstadt, Wurttemberg and Bavaria join the North German Confederation

The North German Confederation adopts a new constitution, which was written under the title of a new "German Confederation" but already gave it the name "German Empire"

The south German states of Baden, Hesse-Darmstadt, Wurttemberg and Bavaria join the North German Confederation

Royal orders force Moltke to submit to Bismarck who wishes to end the war

Put in control of the armistice talks

Discusses peace terms with Thiers & Favre

The Kanzelparagraph remains in force until 1953, several religious orders like the Jesuits remained banned from the German Empire, confiscated properties were not returned, discrimination against the Catholic minority continued in Civil Service

Opens the 1st Reichstag of the 2nd Reich

Under the Treaty of Frankfurt Germany keeps Alsace

Under the Treaty of Frankfurt Germany keeps Alsace

Germany keeps Alsace & Lorraine. Ends the Franco-Prussian War. A German army of occuption will remain in France until the war indemnity is paid

William, Franz Joseph & Nicholas meet, Bismarck wants to create another Holy Alliance. William, Franz Joseph & Nicholas meet, Bismarck can create another Holy Alliance

The German Government breaks off diplomatic relations with the Vatican. William, Franz Joseph & Nicholas meet, Bismarck can create another Holy Alliance. The Jesuits are banned (and remained banned in Germany until 1917) and in December the German Government broke off diplomatic relations with the Vatican

Persuades William to Appoint Roon as Minister of President of Prussia

The estate of the Church was confiscated, monastic orders dissolved, and the paragraphs of the Prussian constitution assuring the freedom of the Catholics is removed

Has Roon dismissed after 10 months because he fails to sufficiently support Bismarck

Religious schools are forced to undergo official Government inspection and in June religious teachers are banned from Government schools. The Jesuits are banned (and remained banned in Germany until 1917) and in December the German Government broke off diplomatic relations with the Vatican.

The German Government breaks off diplomatic relations with the Vatican. Religious schools are forced to undergo official Government inspection and religious teachers are banned from Government schools.

The estate of the Church was confiscated, monastic orders dissolved, and the paragraphs of the Prussian constitution assuring the freedom of the Catholics is removed

Under the May Laws administered by Adalbert Falk, the state begins to monitor the education of clergy closely, creates a secular court for cases involving the clergy, and requires notification of all clergy employment. The Jesuits are banned (and remained banned in Germany until 1917).

Religious schools are forced to undergo official Government inspection and in June religious teachers are banned from Government schools

Religious schools are forced to undergo official Government inspection and in June religious teachers are banned from Government schools

Under the May Laws administered by Adalbert Falk, the state begins to monitor the education of clergy closely, creates a secular court for cases involving the clergy, and requires notification of all clergy employment

Under the May Laws administered by Adalbert Falk, the state begins to monitor the education of clergy closely, creates a secular court for cases involving the clergy, and requires notification of all clergy employment. The Jesuits are banned (and remained banned in Germany until 1917)

Under the May Laws administered by Adalbert Falk, the state begins to monitor the education of clergy closely, creates a secular court for cases involving the clergy, and requires notification of all clergy employment. The Jesuits are banned (and remained banned in Germany until 1917)

Under the May Laws administered by Adalbert Falk, the state begins to monitor the education of clergy closely, creates a secular court for cases involving the clergy, and requires notification of all clergy employment

Religious schools are forced to undergo official Government inspection and religious teachers are banned from Government schools

The German Government breaks off diplomatic relations with the Vatican

The German Government breaks off diplomatic relations with the Vatican

William, Moltke & Bismarck agree a military convention with the Russians

Two archbishops are in prison & 1300 parishes do not have a priest. The term "Kulurkampf" is 1st used to describe Bismarks crusade against the Catholics. Tensions were also increased by the 1870 Vatican Council proclamation on papal infallibility. Bismarck sees the addition of the southern German states (especially Catholic Bavaria) as a possible threat to the Empires stability

The "May Laws" of 1873-75 require state approval for training & licensing priests. The "May Laws" of 1873-75 require state approval for training & licensing of priests

The "May Laws" of 1873-75 require state approval for training & licensing priests. The "May Laws" of 1873-75 require state approval for training & licensing of priests

The "May Laws" of 1873-75 require state approval for training & licensing priests

Tensions were also increased by the 1870 Vatican Council proclamation on papal infallibility

German occupation forces begin to evacuate France following the death of Napoleon III

A military convention between Germany & Russia

Germany completes its evacuation of France

An alliance of the Emperors of Germany, Russia & Austria

An alliance of the Emperors of Germany, Russia & Austria

The office of Minister President of Prussia is temporarily separated from that of Chancellor, when Albrecht von Roon is appointed to the former office, but by the end of the year, Roon resigned due to ill health, and Bismarck becomes PM

Finally passes the military budget, each military budget is to last 7 years

Bismarck's attempts to restrict the power of the Catholic Church, represented in politics by the Catholic Centre Party, were not successful, in the 1874 elections, these forces double their representation in the Parliament

Bismarck's attempts to restrict the power of the Catholic Church, represented in politics by the Catholic Centre Party, were not successful, in the 1874 elections, these forces double their representation in the Parliament

Bismarck's attempts to restrict the power of the Catholic Church, represented in politics by the Catholic Centre Party, were not successful, in the 1874 elections, these forces double their representation in the Parliament. Bismarck even blames the poisoning of a popular lion from Berlin Zoological Gardens on Catholic conspirators

A Catholic, Heinz Kullman, attempts to assassinate Bismarck at Bad Kissingen

The Catholic Centre increases its seats because of hatred of the May Laws. Catholics rally around the Centre Party which increases its vote from 63 to 91 seats

Further May Laws against the Ultramontane clergy provoking Pius IX to annul them

Eduard Kullmann attempts to assassinate Bismarck with a pistol, but only hits his hand, Kullmann names the church laws as the reason why he had to shoot Bismarck

Count Arnim is arrested after the discovery of a plot to replace Bismarck by him

The Congregations Law of 1875 abolishes religious orders, stops state subsidies to the Catholic Church, and removes religious protections from the Prussian constitution

The Congregations Law of 1875 abolishes religious orders, stops state subsidies to the Catholic Church, and removes religious protections from the Prussian constitution. The 1871 Kanzelparagraph introduced a series of sanctions against Catholicism imposed by Bismarck throughout 1875. Marriage becomes a mandatory civil ceremony, removed from the control of the Church

The Congregations Law of 1875 abolishes religious orders, stops state subsidies to the Catholic Church, and removes religious protections from the Prussian constitution. Marriage becomes a mandatory civil ceremony, removed from the control of the Church

Seeks to preserve relations with Russia after problems with France

Starts a war scare with France. Louis Decazes seeks support from Russia & Britain against Bismarck, war is averted. Creates tension with France whe he asks "is war in sight?" in the Berlin Post

Offers Russia an alliance if for Alsace-Lorraine, Russia refuses

Offers Russia an alliance if for Alsace-Lorraine, Russia refuses

Offers Russia an alliance if for Alsace-Lorraine, Russia refuses

Abandons the National Liberals in favour of the Conservatives after the Kulturkampf

The struggle against socialism unites Bismarck with the Catholic Centre Party, bringing an end to the Kulturkampf, which had led to far greater Catholic unrest than existed beforehand and had strengthened rather than weakened Catholicism

The struggle against socialism unites Bismarck with the Catholic Centre Party, bringing an end to the Kulturkampf, which had led to far greater Catholic unrest than existed beforehand and had strengthened rather than weakened Catholicism. Abandons the National Liberals in favour of the Conservatives after the Kulturkampf

Pius dies & is replaced by the conciliatory Leo X. Falk is dismissed & most anti-Catholic laws are dismantled

Prohibition of the Socialist Party press & organisation

The SPD defends itself by conventions in London & Switzerland

Moderates his struggle with the Catholic Church and in the wake of Pius IXs death on February 7, 1878, reconciled with the new Pope, Leo XIII, lifting some sanctions

Opening day of the Congress of Berlin to resolve the "Eastern Question"

The Congress of Berlin redistributes back to the Ottoman Empire certain Bulgarian territories that the previous Treaty had given to the Principality of Bulgaria, most notably Macedonia.

The congress aims to revise the Treaty of San Stefano and keep Constantinople in Ottoman hands and disavow Russia's victory over the decaying Ottoman Empire in the Russo-Turkish War, 1877-78.

The congress revises or eliminates 18 of the 29 articles in the Treaty of San Stefano using as a foundation the treaties of Paris (1856) and London (1871).

The meetings are held at Chancellor Bismarck's residence, the Reichskanzlei (Chancellery), the former Radziwill Palace, from June 13, 1878 until July 13, 1878.

Opens the Congress of Berlin as host and presiding statesman for the negotiations.

The congress revisedsor eliminates 18 of the 29 articles in the Treaty of San Stefano using as a foundation the treaties of Paris (1856) and London (1871)

Presides over agreement allowing Austria-Hungary to occupy and administer Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Helps secure a compromise that replaces the large San Stefano Bulgaria with a smaller autonomous principality.

Closing day of the Congress of Berlin

Uses the congress to revise San Stefano while trying to prevent a wider conflict between Russia and Britain.

Presents Germany as an intermediary between the competing Russian, British, Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman interests.

Presides over the settlement that recognizes Romanian, Serbian and Montenegrin independence, reduces Bulgaria from the San Stefano settlement, and transfers southern Bessarabia to Russia.

Signs the final Treaty of Berlin after a month of negotiations among the Great Powers.

Does not create a "greater Germany", preserves the balance of power. Breaks from the national liberals & relies upon the conservative parties

Raises some tariff restrictions against Russia

Breaks the Treaty of Prague & refuses to support a plebiscite in northern Schleswig

Breaks the Treaty of Prague & refuses to support a plebiscite in northern Schleswig

William I & Alexander II try to put right some misunderstandings

Agrees a dual alliance between Austria & Germany, similar to the Holy Alliance

Austria & Germany agree neutrality if either is at war, except against Russia

The Austrian alliance is used to prevent & Crimean coaliton & avoid another war. Austria & Germany agree to support each other in any war with Russia. Austria & Germany agree neutrality if either is at war, except against Russia. A Treaty of alliance is signed between Austria & Germany, despite William Is opposition

The Septennat Law financing the Army for 7 years is passed through the Reichstag

Says the Emperor is the real Minister President of Prussia

Passes a Royal Edict proclaiming the Emperors responsibility for Government policy

Informs the Landtag that the First Minister will be the servant of the King-Emperor

Bismarck expands Germany's network of defensive alliances.

Germany concludes the Triple Alliance with Austria-Hungary and Italy.

Passes the Sickness Insurance Law

The social security systems installed by Bismarck (health care in 1883, accidents insurance in 1884, invalidity and old-age insurance in 1889) at the time are the most advanced in the world

Passes the Sickness Insurance Law

Passes the Sickness Insurance Law

Passes the Accident Insurance Law

Passes the Accident Insurance Law

At the Conference of Berlin Britain recognizes Germany's claims to the Cameroons

Athe the Conference of Berlin Britain recognizes Germany's claims to the New Guinea

Germany agrees to support Britains claims in Nigeria, against the French

Offers Britain German support over Africa in return for the cession of Heligoland

Offers Britain German support over Africa in return for the cession of Heligoland

Convenes the Berlin Conference, where European powers discuss navigation and trade rules for the Congo basin.

Appointed Deputy Secretary of State

The Reichstag turns down Bismarks proposals to increase military spending. Dissolves the Reichstag after failing to raise the budget. Calls up reserves & announces a war loan to rally patriotic voters at the election. Asks the Reichstag to increase the military budget after the end of the Dreikaiserbund

Calls up reserves & announces a war loan to rally patriotic voters at the election

Dissolves the Reichstag after it refuses his increases to the military budget

Passes a Septennial Act increasing the military budget. Creates ne taxes for liquor & sugar & increasing taxes on grains

The Free Conservatives & National Liberals win 220 out of 375 seats

A supplementary protocol promises German support for Russia in the Dardanelles

Agreed between powers maintaining the status quo in the Mediterranean against Turkey

Says to the Reichstag, "We Germans fear God & nothing else on Earth". Introduces a measure to increase the army reserve to 3 1/4 of a million

Passes the Old Age & Disability Insurance Law

Passes the Old Age & Disability Insurance Law

Created Herzog von Lauenburg (Duke of Lauenburg), highest rank of non-sovereign nobility & styled Serene Highness

The cartell led by Bismarck loses 57 National Liberal & 28 Conservative seats

Dismissed by William II who "drops the pilot"Benjamin Harrison was inaugurated as 23rd President

Returned for Geestmunde with a large majority

Reveals the secret Reinsurance Treaty with Russia. Attacks the Emperor for trying to sacrifice Russian friendship

Reveals the secret Reinsurance Treaty with Russia