Bismarck's relationship with political parties

Supported by:

• Landed nobility (Junkers)
• Aimed to protect landed nobility's domination & privileged position in Germnay

Relations with Bismarck:

• Supported him generally but criticised any liberal and democratic policy

Supported by:

• Landed Nobility (Junkers) and industrial elite
• Aimed to keep things as they are

Relations with Bismarck

• Supported him

Supported by:

• Catholics
• Aimed to protect Catholics interests but agreed with conservatives in many areas

Relations with BIsmarck:

• In 1870s serious conflict with him over his attempts to control Catholic Church. United with him against 'socialist threat.'

Supported by:

• Largest party in 1870- mainly from Middle class
• Aims- to defend national unity from any threats, move away from authoritarian type of government. Opposed Church influence in the state

Relations with Bismarck:

• Worked with him most of the time against the Catholics and Socialists. Uncomfortable with repressive tactics of Bismarck and his refusal to give Reichstag greater role in government

Supported by:

• small party. Left-wing or more radical liberals. Mainly vote from middle class
• Same aims from more critical of lack of parliamentary power and power and role of Prussian army in Germany

Relations to Bismarck:

• Did not work with him and opposed to many of his policies

Supported by:

• Working class
• Aims greater democracy, social reform to improve the life of the poorer sections of society and freedom and equality for all.

Relations with Bismarck:

• Did not work with Bismark and opposed many of his policies
• Bismarck hated this party the most