Abstract:
his book, 1904–1907 – The Exception to German Colonial Rule, explores Germany’s delayed emergence as both a nation-state and a colonial power, contrasting its position with earlier colonial empires like Britain and France. It examines how Germany’s political and intellectual circles viewed colonial expansion as a means of securing international influence, despite weak domestic support for imperial ventures. The narrative also highlights Otto von Bismarck’s opposition to colonization and the limited impact of German colonial associations. By situating Germany within the broader scramble for Africa, the book provides insights into the unique circumstances that shaped its colonial ambitions.
