TMA06 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

TMA06 - Essay Example It is therefore worthwhile analysing the factors that influenced the behaviour of New Imperialism practiced by the European powers to start with, subsequently followed by the nations of Japan and USA. In particular, we examine the events in Europe and especially Germany during this time and try to find out how it influenced the New Imperialism practice as a whole (Loftus, 2007). To understand the formation of the colonial policy under the German Chancellor of the time, Otto von Bismarck, it is important to consider the situation prevalent then, in terms of the political conditions. Germany as a nation as we know has existed only since 1871, after its formation following many battles and wars, which Bismarck was greatly responsible for. Therefore, as the newest nation of Europe, Bismarck wanted Germany to become powerful and influential. Since the years of 1871, he was mainly responsible for Germany’s passive colonial policy. He rather chose to concentrate his efforts on strengthening the nation and building its industry and economy. This policy continued into the 1880s during which there was a surprising change by Bismarck towards active colonial control for the territories of Africa (Berghahn, 1994). It is also important to understand the political setup of Germany at the time. The country had a parliament called the Reichstag; however the Emperor had the power to veto any decision. The Chancellor was usually the person who has involved with the day to day activities of the parliament. Until the late 1890s Bismarck’s command was unquestioned in the parliament. In order to make decisions, apart from convincing the members of the parliament, he had great power. However, when in 1887, the Emperor Frederick died, his son Wilhelm II became the Emperor (Loftus, 2007). With Wilhelm II’s accession to power, Bismarck faced more opposition from him regarding Germany’s domestic