Originally published in 1987, this study assesses the extent to which social and economic conditions affected the outcome of Reichstag and Landtag elections. It discusses the economic development in the district of Düsseldorf both before and during the period covered, 1867-1878; it also examines those social conditions in the region that remained static from 1867 – 1878, but also considers, as a background to each election or set of elections, short term changes in economic and social conditions.

Originally published between 1929 and 1991 the volumes in this set:

Offer a comprehensive and challenging interpretation of the German past

Assess Bismarck’s contribution to the German Empire and his legacy for modern Germany


Examine the psyche of the Germans and discuss the psychological impact of the Second World War on the Germans


Review critically not only the rise and rule of National Socialism, but also the strength of authoritarianism and militarism and the weakness of democracy in 19th Century Germany


Examine the inter-relationships between social and economic change on the...