Leo von Caprivi, German general and politician, Chancellor of Germany (b. 1831)

Georg Leo Graf von Caprivi de Caprara de Montecuccoli, born Georg Leo von Caprivi (24 February 1831 – 6 February 1899), was a prominent German general and statesman who played a pivotal role in the German Empire’s leadership during a critical transitional period. He served as the second Chancellor of the German Empire and Minister-President of Prussia from March 1890 to October 1894, directly succeeding the towering figure of Otto von Bismarck.

Caprivi's Ascent and the "New Course"

Caprivi's appointment marked a significant shift in German policy, driven by Kaiser Wilhelm II's desire for a "New Course" (Neuer Kurs) in both domestic and foreign affairs. This new direction aimed to move Germany away from Bismarck's complex web of alliances and domestic Realpolitik, promoting a more assertive and industrially-focused nation on the global stage. Caprivi, a career military officer with a reputation for efficiency and loyalty, was seen as an ideal figure to implement the young Kaiser's vision, often described as a transition from Bismarck's "Age of Iron and Blood" to a more modern, industrialized Germany.

Domestic Policies: Economic Modernization and Internal Strife

Promoting Industrial and Commercial Growth

One of the hallmarks of Caprivi’s chancellorship was his commitment to accelerating Germany’s industrial and commercial development. He championed policies designed to bolster the nation's burgeoning manufacturing sector and expand its global trade reach. To achieve this, Caprivi embarked on an ambitious program of trade liberalization, concluding numerous bilateral treaties aimed at the reduction of tariff barriers. These treaties, often referred to as the "Caprivi Commercial Treaties" (Handelsverträge), significantly lowered import duties on various goods, including foodstuffs and raw materials, with countries like Austria-Hungary, Italy, Belgium, Switzerland, and Russia.

Confronting Agrarian Interests: The Junkers' Opposition

While beneficial for Germany's rapidly expanding industrial base and urban working class, Caprivi’s movement toward free trade deeply angered the powerful conservative agrarian interests, particularly the Junkers. The Junkers were the traditional landowning aristocracy of Prussia, whose economic power and social standing were heavily reliant on high protective tariffs for their agricultural products, especially grain. Lowering these tariffs exposed their farms to cheaper foreign competition, threatening their profitability and political influence. This clash between industrial and agricultural interests became a persistent source of domestic tension throughout Caprivi's tenure.

Educational Reforms and the Catholic Center Party

In an effort to build a broader base of support, Caprivi made promises of educational reforms to the Catholic Center Party, a significant political force in the Reichstag. These reforms were intended to increase the party's influence over the educational system, particularly in predominantly Catholic regions, often focusing on issues like religious instruction and the autonomy of denominational schools. However, Caprivi ultimately failed to deliver on these specific promises, leading to disillusionment and a weakening of his political capital with a crucial parliamentary bloc.

Foreign Policy: A Controversial Departure from Bismarck's Legacy

Abandoning the Russian Alliance

As a core component of Kaiser Wilhelm II's "New Course" in foreign policy, Caprivi made the fateful decision to abandon Bismarck's carefully crafted military, economic, and ideological cooperation with the Russian Empire. Most notably, under Wilhelm II's directive, Caprivi chose not to renew the Reinsurance Treaty with Russia in 1890. This secret bilateral agreement, established by Bismarck, had ensured mutual neutrality in case of an attack by a third party, providing a crucial counterbalance to Germany’s alliance with Austria-Hungary. Historians widely consider this non-renewal a major strategic mistake, as it pushed Russia closer to France, ultimately leading to the Franco-Russian Alliance, which would profoundly reshape the European power balance and isolate Germany.

Missed Opportunities with Great Britain

Compounding the foreign policy missteps, Caprivi also misjudged multiple opportunities to cultivate stronger, more favorable relations with Great Britain. Despite some initial attempts at rapprochement, such as the Heligoland-Zanzibar Treaty of 1890 (where Germany ceded rights to Zanzibar in exchange for the island of Heligoland), a broader strategic alignment failed to materialize. London, frustrated by Germany's shifting priorities and perceived lack of consistent engagement, subsequently turned its diplomatic attention and sought agreements with other powers, notably Tokyo and Paris, further complicating Germany's geopolitical position.

Downfall and Legacy

Caprivi's political downfall in October 1894 was primarily precipitated by the very trade agreements he championed. While these agreements favored German industry and urban workers, they continued to antagonize the more powerful agricultural interests, who mounted relentless opposition. This deep division, combined with his inability to fully reconcile the conflicting demands of various political factions and his diminishing rapport with Kaiser Wilhelm II, ultimately led to his resignation.

Despite his relatively short and challenging tenure, Caprivi's chancellorship is remembered for several commendable achievements:

• Refusal to Renew Anti-Socialist Laws: Historians widely praise Caprivi's refusal to renew the harsh restrictions on socialists, known as the Socialist Laws (Sozialistengesetze), which Bismarck had enacted. This move allowed the Social Democratic Party (SPD) to operate more openly, contributing to a more democratic, albeit still politically charged, environment.
• Military Reorganization: He successfully oversaw a significant reorganization and expansion of the German military, enhancing its readiness and capabilities, a crucial undertaking in an era of heightened international tensions and imperial ambitions. This involved strengthening the army and improving its logistical and command structures.

Frequently Asked Questions about Georg Leo Graf von Caprivi

Who was Georg Leo Graf von Caprivi?

Georg Leo Graf von Caprivi was a German general and statesman who served as the Chancellor of the German Empire and Minister-President of Prussia from March 1890 to October 1894, succeeding Otto von Bismarck.

What was the "New Course" under Caprivi?

The "New Course" refers to Kaiser Wilhelm II's policy shift implemented through Caprivi, moving away from Bismarck's complex diplomacy towards a more assertive foreign policy, industrial development, and an end to anti-socialist legislation. It emphasized Germany's role as a global power.

What were Caprivi's main domestic policies?

Domestically, Caprivi focused on promoting industrial and commercial development through bilateral trade treaties that reduced tariffs. He also attempted educational reforms but faced significant opposition, especially from conservative agrarian interests (Junkers) who were negatively impacted by lower tariffs.

Why was Caprivi's foreign policy considered controversial?

His foreign policy was controversial primarily because he did not renew the Reinsurance Treaty with Russia, a key alliance forged by Bismarck. This decision is widely seen by historians as a major mistake that pushed Russia into an alliance with France, isolating Germany.

What led to Caprivi's downfall as Chancellor?

Caprivi's downfall was largely due to the intense opposition from powerful agricultural interests, particularly the Junkers, who were angered by his free trade agreements that favored industry and urban workers. His political struggles with these powerful lobbies and diminishing favor with Kaiser Wilhelm II ultimately led to his resignation.

What were Caprivi's positive legacies?

Caprivi is praised for his refusal to renew the harsh anti-socialist laws, which allowed for greater political freedom. He is also credited with successfully reorganizing and strengthening the German military during his tenure.