THE NEW AGE IN EUROPE

• After the creation of the German Empire in 1871, the Balance of power in Europe was destroyed.
• Germany became the first greatest military power.
• The Germans were feared in Europe while the German people had great respect for their army and Bismarck.
• Right or wrong never mattered to the Germans.
• The only thing that mattered was the good of the Fatherland.
• This meant that Germany could do anything as long as it led to greater power for Germany.
• This philosophy in German politics became known as
• France was no longer a dominant power in Europe as she had been defeated in the Franco-Prussian War.
• As a result, France developed a negative attitude towards the new Germany and resented the war reparation payments to Germany.
• France also resented the loss of Alsace and Lorraine.
• France was humiliated and wanted a war of revenge against Germany.