Germany's First Bid for Colonies, 1884-1885: A Move in Bismarck's European Policy

A provocative analysis of Bismarck’s motives for colonial expansion. Professor Taylor’s analysis is original, meticulously documented, and, whether it delights or outrages the reader, unquestionably stimulating.

In the years between 1881 and 1912, the European powers extended their influence and empires over Africa and large parts of Asia. In 1884, there was suddenly added to the old colonial rivals, France and England, a power which had hitherto confined itself strictly to the European continent: Germany. The German colonial empire was virtually the work of a single year. The Cameroons were established in July 1884, German South-West Africa in August, New Guinea in December 1884, and German East Africa was begun in May 1885. In this book, the noted English historian A. J. P. Taylor examines the reasons for Germany’s sudden entrance into the scramble for colonies.

In this book, the noted English historian A.J.P. Taylor examines the reasons for German's sudden entrance into the scramble for colonies. Professor Taylor takes issue with standard interpretations--a rising enthusiasm for colonies, public pressure on the government, a reversal of attitude on Bismarck's part--and instead seeks to explain Bismarck's colonial policy by fitting it into the structure of contemporary European politics.