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Tiny German Navy (High Seas Fleet)

The "Tiny German Navy" or "High Seas Fleet" refers to Germany's naval forces during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly before and during World War I. Despite significant investments, the fleet was smaller than those of its main rivals, especially Britain. Commanded by figures like Admiral von Tirpitz, the fleet aimed to challenge British naval dominance. However, strategic choices, including a focus on battleships over submarines, limited its effectiveness. After Germany's defeat in WWI, the fleet was largely disbanded, marking a shift in naval power dynamics and highlighting the challenges of trying to compete with established naval powers.