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The German Monarchy existed formally from 1871 to 1918. It shared its monarch with that of Prussia which was part of the House of Hohenzollern. However, within the Empire there were numerous other kingdoms, grand duchies, duchies and principalities. The idea of Monarchy in Germany today is rather mixed, as few remember the German Empire. Although the Government was in appearance federal, democratic, and monarchic, in practice it was actually quite authoritarian. The Chancellor was chosen by the Emperor and was responsible only to him.
The German Empire was the most powerful country on mainland Europe for most of its brief existence, arguably one of the most powerful countries in the world. The Empire's greatest rivals were the French and Russian Empires, however the Empire that Germany most aspired to rival was that of the British despite the fact that both powers had maintained a close and healthy relationship for most of their existence.
[edit] Monarchies of the German Empire
- Kingdoms
- Grand Duchies
- Duchies
- Principalities
