Bernhard von Blow (Chancellor of Germany)

Profession: Chancellor of Germany

Biography: Bernhard von Bülow served as Chancellor of the German Empire from 1900 to 1909. He is best known for his role in shaping Germany's foreign policy during this period, which aimed to make Germany a global power.

Von Bülow was born in 1849 in Holstein, Germany, to a prominent aristocratic family. He studied at universities in Germany and Switzerland before entering the diplomatic service. He later held various diplomatic posts in Europe, including in Rome, St. Petersburg, and Paris.

In 1897, Kaiser Wilhelm II appointed von Bülow as State Secretary for Foreign Affairs. He then became Chancellor in 1900 and pursued a policy of expanding Germany's influence abroad, known as Weltpolitik. This led to increased tensions with other European powers, particularly during the First Moroccan Crisis in 1905.

On the domestic front, von Bülow introduced several social reforms, such as accident insurance and health insurance. His tenure was also marked by controversy, however, including the Daily Telegraph Affair in 1908, when indiscreet remarks by Wilhelm II damaged Germany's foreign relations.

Von Bülow resigned as Chancellor in 1909 and retired to Rome. He wrote several books on German politics and briefly returned to diplomacy during World War I, serving as ambassador to Italy.

Born: May 3, 1849
Birthplace: Klein-Flottbeck, Germany
Star Sign: Taurus

Died: October 28, 1929 (aged 80)

Historical Events

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