Following the unification of Germany in 1871, Bismarck, the Alliance System and European Diplomacy, 1871–1890 introduces students to how Otto von Bismarck used diplomacy and a network of alliances to preserve peace, protect the new German Empire and isolate France. Students examine Bismarck’s foreign policy goals, the major alliances created between 1871 and 1890, and why Kaiser Wilhelm II’s dismissal of Bismarck marked a turning point in European diplomacy. Through short videos, class discussions and guided questioning, students build a strong foundation for understanding the changing balance of power in Europe before the First World War.

This ready-to-use PowerPoint saves valuable preparation time while encouraging students to think about the purpose of alliances, diplomacy and leadership. The lesson uses clear explanations, engaging visuals and structured discussion questions to help students connect key events and evaluate why Bismarck’s diplomatic system was significant. Students also explore how Wilhelm II’s different approach weakened the existing alliance system and contributed to changing international relations in Europe.

What students will learn

Students will:

• Explain Bismarck’s aims after German unification in 1871.
• Understand why France became the focus of Bismarck’s foreign policy.
• Identify the major alliances that formed the European alliance system between 1871 and 1890.
• Explain the importance of the Three Emperors’ League, Dual Alliance, Triple Alliance and Reinsurance Treaty.
• Compare Bismarck’s cautious diplomacy with Kaiser Wilhelm II’s foreign policy.
• Examine how changes after 1890 affected the European balance of power.
• Develop historical thinking through partner discussions and guided questioning.

What’s included

• Editable PowerPoint presentation.
• Teacher presentation slides covering Bismarck, Kaiser Wilhelm II and the European alliance system.
• Two embedded video activities with viewing times provided.
• Partner discussion questions.
• Teacher answer slides for class discussion.
• Summary slides covering the key concepts and historical developments.

Curriculum alignment

This resource is particularly useful for:

• IB Diploma Programme History (First assessment 2027/2026 guide) – HL Paper 3: Europe (1871–1918), including the maintenance of peace, stability and the changing balance of power after 1871.
• A-Level History – Germany and European international relations before the First World War.
• Senior Modern History (Australian Curriculum v9.0) – The causes of the First World War, European diplomacy and the changing balance of power in Europe.

Whether you are introducing European diplomacy for the first time or preparing students for a more detailed study of the origins of the First World War, Bismarck, the Alliance System, and European Diplomacy, 1871–1890 provides an engaging foundation while reducing teacher preparation time.

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