ABSTRACT
German imperialism in the age of Bismarck was a response to the economic and social problems caused by the Great Depression. As the depression dragged on there was a mounting chorus of voices demanding a German colonial empire so that industry could find new markets, the unemployed find work, and the country given a sense of national purpose which seemed to have been lost in the gloom of continual economic stagnation. The colonial enthusiasts soon formed a number of interest groups that were to have a considerable impact. Western industrialists called for colonies to ensure a good return on capital, to stimulate industry and trade and to protect the country against the perils of a socialist revolution. With the onset of the Great Depression the principal aim of German overseas policy was to stimulate exports so that industry could find adequate outlets for its excess capacity.
