Germany's Second Reich

Retallack reveals the complex and contradictory nature of the Second Reich, presenting Imperial Germany as it was seen by outsiders and insiders as well as by historians, political scientists, and sociologists ever since.

James Retallack is a University Professor in the Department of History at the University of Toronto.

"Retallack’s collection of essays is marked by sharp and thoughtful analytical distinction, judicious and critical reflections on the work of colleagues in the field, and beautiful, clear writing."

Isabel V. Hull:

‘This volume is a sprightly, critical introduction to the recent historiography of imperial Germany’s domestic politics.’

S. Bailey:

‘This sparkling collection of essays focuses on the acute political and social tensions that wracked Germany from 1866 to 1918… This is a work in which a leading scholar brings fresh analytical insights to bear on the age of Bismarck and Wilhelm… Highly recommended.’

Ute Planert, Professor of Modern History and History Education, University of Wuppertal:

“Have historians been too quick to abandon the Sonderweg thesis? When one of the world’s foremost experts on the German Kaiserreich plays the devil’s advocate and proposes a re-evaluation of the topic, scholars should sit up and take notice. In these chapters Retallack invites readers to revisit the nature of Germany’s journey into modernity.”

David Blackbourn, Cornelius Vanderbilt Distinguished Professor of History, Vanderbilt University:

“This lively and very wide-ranging essay collection makes a valuable contribution to our understanding of Imperial Germany and its place in the trajectory of modern German history. James Retallack deals as confidently with authoritarianism as he does with popular politics, both of them very evident in the Germany of Bismarck and the Kaiser, and his book has the virtue of including views of Germany by British and American observers.”

James Brophy, Francis H. Squire Professor of History, University of Delaware:

“One of the profession’s leading experts on the Second Reich, James Retallack writes with a grace and clarity that showcases his broad knowledge, judicious reading, and generosity of spirit. Both newcomers and experts alike will benefit from these essays.”