A rare documentary collection of official German views on war, power, and policy.
This edition presents speeches, prefaces, and commentary that illuminate how German leaders framed national strength, international law, and the drive for world influence in the early 20th century.
The book gathers primary material that explains Germany’s thinking about naval buildup, overseas interests, and the balance of power in Europe. It traces where leaders saw Germany’s destiny in relation to France, Russia, Austria-Hungary, and smaller states, and it reveals how the idea of national strength was tied to the fleet, the army, and a proactive foreign policy. The result is a challenging window into the mindset that shaped crucial decisions on the eve of broader conflicts.
- Explore the arguments for a strong navy and overseas bases as essential to national prosperity and security.
- Understand the belief that power drives right in international affairs, and that treaties can be overridden by force.
- See how German leaders framed relations with France, Russia, and Austria-Hungary, and why small states mattered.
- Learn how concepts of culture, civilization, and national destiny were tied to policy and action.
Ideal for readers of historical policy, diplomacy, and primary-source perspectives on early 20th‑century international politics.