As I scrolled through Netflix, looking for any new shows following the end of yet another The Office rewatch, one series trailer caught my eye.
This fascinating documentary takes the perspective of a prospective dictator and teaches the crucial lessons that dictators throughout history have displayed and ignored, to their own downfall.
Why not give it a try myself? Below are the 5 key messages and lessons that dictators can take from the 'Father of Germany'.
Before I begin I first must add a disclaimer that this article by no means should be taken seriously, and instead be seen as a comedic analysis of Bismarck's leadership. I am not claiming that Bismarck was a dictator, he was constitutionally responsible to the Kaisers of Prussia and later Emperors of Germany, the article is merely an analysis of how a dictator could use the Iron Chancellor's experiences to their own despotic governance.
1. Be Flexible
In order to maintain your grip on power, the ability to shift policy on the go and keep opposition and allies alike on their feet is crucial. Bismarck was and continues to be unparalleled in his ability to do this. In foreign policy Bismarck's daft footwork, jumping between a pro-Austria stance against Denmark to a French alliance to a Russian détente and back again allowed Bismarck the ability to create the German State without annoying foreign interference.
In Domestic policy, his moves from a Free Trade and anti-Catholic Liberal between 1871 to 1878 to a fierce Protectionist hand in hand with Catholics in the period between 1878 and 1890 is no less impressive, but was less effective — a topic that maybe can be better discussed in another day.
His shape shifting is remarkable, moving from a Liberal ally to an Conservative hawk based solely on his read of the political winds, an ability admirable and useful to any dictator.
Bismarck's ability to force his policies on other leaders leads us to the next key lesson.
2. Get Good at Manipulating
The ability to twist and contrive both foreign leaders and domestic opposition is essential for any thriving dictatorship, and Bismarck was the best of them all.
This skill was demonstrated in occasions no less important than in his Biarritz meeting with Napoleon III, a prequel to his invasion of Austria in 1867, and the formation of the Alliance of Three Emperors between Germany, Austria and Russia in 1881. Being well-respected in important foreign circles can help build sympathy and resistance to interference, such as in Britain with his relationship with Opposition Leader and eventual Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli.
His complex relationship with his King, Wilhelm, leads us to our next lesson.
3. Stay Close to the Throne
For the Dictators reading that do not hold absolute power (yet), this lesson is right up your alley. Bismarck's position of power came from his control of his Monarch, Kaiser Wilhelm I, and relied on having the Emperor's ear and trust, despite widespread opposition, even including Queen Augusta herself.
Bismarck never wielded the throne or complete control, but his skill until the end was the control and influence he had with his Kaiser of 26 years that allowed him to control policy within Prussia and later the German Reich.
The only important figure he needed was the Kaiser. When Bismarck lost the support of Kaiser Wilhelm III in 1890, following disputes on African colonies and the pragmatism of Bismarck's political policies, he was swiftly removed from power, a lesson that a great leader must always Watch the Throne™.
4. Popular Support is not Necessary, But Can Be Helpful
Bismarck never held mass support amongst the Prussian or German population. He was despised in many regions, and barely tolerated even in his home Junker areas in the Prussian East. But this did not matter.
For a dictator this lesson can come with some consequences. Bismarck was unpopular, but never despised. As long as the population does not become active in voicing their displeasure, you are able to rule without listening to them. They will inevitably bow down to your genius.
5. Craft Your Own Story
"History will be kind to me, for I intend to write it." — Winston Churchill
Bismarck's memoirs, the easily pronounced Gedanken und Erinnerungen, was crucial in writing his own history and providing his own version of events. For any great dictator, the ability to provide alternative facts in story telling for the masses is essential for maintaining an iron grip on power.
His letters and memoirs make up a sizeable part of the historical understanding of his reign, and allows him to promote himself and his version of history that will be remembered. In a new age this could mean a Medium account for you the dictator, but maybe just stick to controlling the narrative.