Parliamentary Government and the growth of Socialism

Parliamentary Government and the growth of Socialism

The success of German industry had made many landowners, business and factory owners very rich. These people, along with noble army officers, were a powerful force in Germany at the time and had much influence with the Kaiser. They were keen to preserve their postitons of influence, but things were changing. Many workers in the new factories, mines and workshops were unhappy because their wages were low, working conditions were poor, and food was expensive. More and more working class people joined trade unions and organised strikes in the hope that this might force the Kaiser…