AQA GCSE History Paper 1 (1AB), June 2025: Question 4

Mark scheme

Show the mark scheme

04 Describe two problems faced by Kaiser Wilhelm II in ruling Germany before 1914.

[4 marks]

The indicative content is designed to exemplify the qualities expected at each

level and is not a full exemplar answer. All historically relevant and valid

answers should be credited.

Target Demonstrate knowledge of the key features and characteristics of the

periods studied (AO1a)

Demonstrate understanding of the key features and characteristics of the

periods studied (AO1b)

Level 2: Answers demonstrate knowledge and understanding 3–4

Students may progress from a simple demonstration of knowledge about the

issues identified with extended reasoning supported by understanding of, for

example, the ways in which events were problematic.

For example, one problem was that ruling Germany was difficult because rapid

industrial expansion created social problems in the towns and opposition from

the growth of militant Trade Unions and extremist groups.

Another problem was that the growing power of the socialists made it difficult to

secure a majority for the government in the Reichstag.

Level 1: Answers demonstrate knowledge 1–2

Students demonstrate relevant knowledge about the issue(s) identified which

might be related.

For example, Germany was industrialising very quickly and that the socialists

were becoming more numerous and were demanding reforms.

Students either submit no evidence or fail to address the question 0

How to answer it

Germany: Problems Faced by Kaiser Wilhelm II (Before 1914)

AQA GCSE History • 4 Marks • AO1 Knowledge & Understanding

What this question tests

This question assesses your ability to recall key historical features (AO1a) and demonstrate an understanding of why those features were significant or problematic (AO1b). You must identify two distinct problems faced by Kaiser Wilhelm II in ruling Germany prior to the outbreak of the First World War in 1914 and explain *why* they were difficulties.

Exam Question Breakdown: Question 0.4

Describe two problems faced by Kaiser Wilhelm II in ruling Germany before 1914. [4 marks]

✅ Example Correct Points

Rapid Industrialisation & Social Unrest: Rapid growth created crowded towns and fueled the rise of militant Trade Unions and extremist groups demanding change.
Growth of Socialists (SPD): The Social Democratic Party gained massive support, making it increasingly difficult for the Kaiser and his Chancellor to secure a working majority in the Reichstag.
Weltpolitik & Naval Race: The aggressive foreign policy strained the economy and isolated Germany diplomatically.

💡 Key Knowledge to Revise

Autocracy vs. Democracy: The Kaiser held ultimate power (appointed Chancellors, controlled the army), but the Reichstag was elected by all men over 25.
The SPD: By 1912, the Social Democrats were the largest party in the Reichstag, fundamentally opposed to the Kaiser's autocratic rule.
Rapid Growth: Germany overtook Britain in steel production by 1914, causing massive rural-to-urban migration and terrible living conditions in industrial cities.

🧠 Exam Technique for Full Marks

The "What + Why" Formula: To get Level 2 (3–4 marks), you cannot just name a problem. You must state the feature AND explain *why* it was a problem for the Kaiser.
Keep it brief: You only need a short paragraph for each of the two problems. Do not waste time writing long introductions or conclusions.
Clear separation: Clearly structure your answer so the examiner can easily spot Problem 1 and Problem 2.

❌ Common Errors to Avoid

Listing without explanation: Writing things like "Industrialisation and Socialists" without explaining *why* these created ruling difficulties limits you to 1–2 marks (Level 1).
Chronology errors: Mentioning events from during World War I (e.g., wartime rationing, the 1918 revolution) instead of sticking strictly to the period before 1914.
Blurring rulers: Confusing Kaiser Wilhelm II's domestic issues with Bismarck's earlier policies (like the Kulturkampf), though related, keep your focus on Wilhelm II's reign.

Mark Scheme Guidance:
• Level 2 (3–4 marks): Student demonstrates knowledge and understanding by explaining the ways in which events/issues were problematic.
• Level 1 (1–2 marks): Student demonstrates simple, relevant knowledge about issues that might be related, but lacks extended reasoning/explanation.

Topics

Paper 1 AB Germany, 1890–1945: Democracy and dictatorship · Part one: Germany and the growth of democracy