German imperialism

German imperialism evolved as a result of the expansion of monopoly capitalism, seeking new markets, resources, and spheres of influence beyond national borders.

Historical Roots

German unification in 1871 under Prussian leadership created a powerful state with the means and ambitions to compete for imperial dominance. Following successive wars against Denmark, Austria, and France, Germany emerged as the major continental power in Europe. The nation’s leadership quickly turned to overseas expansion, seeking to catch up with Britain and France in building an empire.

Expansion and Colonialism

In the late nineteenth century, Germany pursued colonies in Africa and the Pacific. Territories such as German East Africa, Cameroon, Togo, and German South-West Africa became sites of brutal exploitation, genocides and oppression. The colonial project was justified by the ruling classes as a "civilizing mission", but in reality, it was driven by economic and strategic motives. Infrastructure, land, and labor were ruthlessly extracted for the needs of German industry, with devastating effects for local populations.

Monopoly Capitalism and State Power

As the German economy grew, ownership and control became concentrated in the hands of large monopolies. The state aligned itself more and more openly with these giant industrial and financial interests, using its political and military apparatus to enforce imperial ambitions abroad and to suppress resistance at home. The repression of workers and colonial peoples was a necessary feature of maintaining profit and control for the ruling class.

Crisis and War

Competition between imperialist powers over markets and resources made war inevitable. Germany’s drive for empire pushed it toward militarization and alliances, culminating in the First World War. The war exposed the contradictions of imperialism: immense destruction, popular uprisings, and eventual defeat. The collapse of the German Empire in 1918 led to the loss of colonial holdings, which Nazi Germany tried to reclaim in the Second World War