German Reich year 1875/1890 Used stamps

German Reich year 1875/1890 ☀ Used stamps

The German Empire, or Deutsches Reich, was the unified state that existed from the unification of Germany in 1871 under the leadership of Chancellor Otto von Bismarck until its collapse at the end of World War I in 1918. The establishment of the German Empire marked the end of the loose confederation of German states and the beginning of a powerful, centralized nation-state.

The process of German unification was largely orchestrated by Otto von Bismarck, the Minister President of Prussia. Through a series of diplomatic maneuvers and wars, Bismarck succeeded in uniting the various German-speaking states and territories under Prussian leadership. The final step in this process was the defeat of France in the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871), which resulted in the proclamation of the German Empire on January 18, 1871, in the Palace of Versailles.

The German Empire was a constitutional monarchy, with Kaiser Wilhelm I serving as the first German Emperor (Kaiser) and Bismarck as Chancellor. The Kaiser held significant executive power, but a bicameral parliament, the Reichstag, was established to represent the people and pass laws. However, the actual power rested largely with the Chancellor and his administration.

Like other European powers of the time, the German Empire pursued colonial ambitions, acquiring territories in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. Colonies such as German East Africa (present-day Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi) and German South-West Africa (present-day Namibia) were established during this period.

The German Empire maintained a powerful military, and its leaders pursued a policy of military build-up and expansion, often leading to tensions with neighbouring countries and contributing to the alliances that would eventually lead to World War I.

The German Empire came to an end with Germany’s defeat in World War I and the abdication of Kaiser Wilhelm II in November 1918. This led to the establishment of the Weimar Republic, marking a new era in German history.