Wilhelm II (German Emperor)

Wilhelm II was the German Emperor from 1888 to 1918, known for his assertive leadership and desire to make Germany a world power. He expanded Germany’s navy and military, competing with Britain and others, and often acted without consulting his advisors. His aggressive foreign policies and military build-up contributed to tensions that led to World War I. Wilhelm’s reign ended with Germany’s defeat in the war, and he abdicated in 1918, living in exile afterward. His leadership is often seen as a key factor in the buildup to global conflict and the fall of the German monarchy.