The German Empire was a semi-constitutional monarchy formed in 1871 by the North German Confederation under Otto von Bismarck to unify northern and southern Germany following victories over Austria and France. It existed until 1918 and was led by Emperor Wilhelm I and his successors, growing to include colonies in Africa and the Pacific but centering in modern-day Germany before being destroyed at the end of World War I with the abdication of Emperor Wilhelm II.

1. The German Empire

2. What was it? A semi-constitutional monarchy An emperor is elected or is established by lineage, though they are beholden to a constitution Conquered colonies throughout the world including in Africa (Cameroon, Namibia, and Tanzania) and Asia (German Samoa and New Guinea)

3. Why was it formed? The German Empire was formed to unify northern and southern Germany following the Austro-Prussian and Franco-Prussian wars

4. Who formed it? North German Confederation supported by its southern Germany allies Proclaimed Wilhelm I as German Emperor in 1871

5. Where was its territory? In central Europe (modern-day Germany)

6. When did it exist? 1871 – Formed in Versailles, France 1918 – Destroyed with the abdication of the throne by William II