The German System of Government

How did the Kaiser rule Germany?

The Kaiser was an autocratic ruler. He had advisers, and debated ideas with the government; but he also had the power to overrule them and act on his own ideas.

Who helped the Kaiser to rule Germany?

The Kaiser ruled over Germany, but he was supported by 3 key features:

• ❖ Each former state sent representatives to the Bundesrat to consult the Kaiser over new laws, and to give local advice on situations. They also discussed laws proposed by the Kaiser and his advisers.
• ❖ The Kaiser was supported by personal advisers, or ministers - mostly large landowners and business/factory owners. The most important of these ministers was his chancellor (like a Prime Minister).
• ❖ The Reichstag was a parliament of elected officials, and all men aged over 25 could vote for them. This was where laws drawn up by the Kaiser and his ministers were discussed.

What were the Kaiser's policies when he ruled Germany?

The Kaiser had several important policies, but the most important were ideas of expansion of the German power base. These were mostly seen in the ideas of Weltpolitik and Flottenpolitik.