Year of the Three Emperors

Lore & Background

Wilhelm I became King of Prussia in 1861 after the death of Frederick William IV, and ruled over the German Empire from its unification on 18 January 1871 until his death at nearly 91. His son, Crown Prince Frederick William, was celebrated for his military leadership during the Second Schleswig War, the Austro-Prussian War, and the Franco-Prussian War. Frederick had just turned 56 before 1888, and his heir-apparent was named Wilhelm, after his grandfather. Wilhelm II turned 29 in January 1888.

Reader's Guide

The Year of the Three Emperors is significant because it highlights a rare moment of rapid monarchical succession in a major European power. The deaths of Wilhelm I and Frederick III within three months brought the young Wilhelm II to the throne, whose reign would dramatically alter German and world history. Frederick III's brief 99-day rule, hampered by terminal laryngeal cancer, prevented any lasting liberal influence on the empire. The year is remembered in German culture through the mnemonic 'drei Achten, drei Kaiser,' used by children and adults alike. This succession underscores the fragility of leadership transitions and the impact of individual rulers on national direction, as Wilhelm II's policies eventually led Germany into World War I and the empire's collapse in 1918.

Did You Know?

• The mnemonic 'drei Achten, drei Kaiser' (three eights, three emperors) is sometimes used in Germany to remember the year 1888.
• Wilhelm I reigned over Prussia for 27 years and over Germany for 17 years, living until almost 91.
• Frederick III died after only 99 days of rule due to terminal cancer of the larynx.
• Wilhelm II turned 29 in January 1888 and eventually led Germany into World War I.