Once Otto von Bismarck gives up his…
1876 CE to 1887 CE
A positive aspect of Bismarck's campaign to contain the SPD is a number of laws passed in the 1880s establishing national health insurance and old-age pensions.
Bismarck's hope is that if workers are protected by the government, they will come to support it and see no need for revolution.
Bismarck's antisocialist campaign, which will continue until his dismissal in 1890 by Wilhelm II, severely restricts the activities of the SPD.
Ironically, the laws may inadvertently benefit the SPD by forcing it to work within legal channels.
As a result of its sustained activity within the political system, the SPD becomes a cautious, pragmatic party, which, despite its fiery Marxist rhetoric, wins increasing numbers of seats in the Reichstag and achieves some improvements in working and living conditions for Germany's working class.
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