Navy League (Germany)

Specifically it was intended to develop popular pressure on the German parliament (Reichstag) to approve the Fleet Acts of 1898 and 1900, and the attendant expenses.

The German naval policy changed decisively upon the accession of Kaiser Wilhelm II in 1888 and the resignation of Chancellor Otto von Bismarck two years later.

Germany's leaders sought a place in the sun which they believed to be commensurate with its rising industrial strength, primarily by the creation of a colonial empire to rival those of other powers.

Influential circles in the German government, headed by state secretary for foreign affairs Bernhard von Bülow supported the foundation of the league.

[2][full citation needed] Beside the influence on political decisions, the league’s aim was to strengthen the understanding and interest of the German people for the importance and duties of the fleet.

[3] These efforts aroused a widespread enthusiasm for the navy, reflected by several magazines and adventure books right up to collectible cards and sailor suits for children.

At the turn of the 20th century, leaders and members naively claimed that the League was a “supra-party” organization devoted to rallying all patriotic forces in general support of the Kaiser’s naval and world policy.

Support provided by the Navy League, founded partly to influence the passage of pet naval bills, combined with large industrial concerns made this possible.

The rise of the Social Democrats led to fears in middle class circles of a breakdown in society, a weakening of government and general anarchy.