I. Differences of opinion over social policy:
At the time, Germany was undergoing rapid industrialization and urbanization, which led to increasing social tensions and calls for social reform. Bismarck, who had been a strong advocate of social welfare policies to keep the working class content and loyal to the state, proposed a comprehensive social insurance program that included old age pensions, accident insurance, and health insurance. However, Wilhelm II, who took a more conservative stance on social issues, opposed these proposals as he feared they would lead to socialism.
II. Differences of opinion over foreign policy:
Bismarck had been a master diplomat and had successfully navigated complex international relations during his time as chancellor. He had maintained good relations with Austria and Russia through a system of alliances, and had avoided direct conflicts with other major European powers. Wilhelm II, on the other hand, was more ambitious and assertive in foreign affairs. He sought to expand Germany's power and influence, and did not hesitate to make aggressive moves. These differences led to disagreements between Bismarck and Wilhelm II over how to handle diplomatic crises.
III. The treatment of the Catholic Church:
Bismarck had been involved in a conflict with the Catholic Church, known as the Kulturkampf, over the influence of the church in Germany. He introduced policies to limit the power of the Catholic clergy, which angered many Catholics and strained relations between the church and the state. Wilhelm II, who was more tolerant of the Catholic Church, wanted to ease these tensions and improve relations with the Vatican.
The culmination of these differences eventually led to Wilhelm II's decision to dismiss Bismarck as Chancellor of Germany on 18 March 1890. After his resignation, Bismarck retreated to his estate and remained a vocal critic of the government's policies until his death in 1898.