The German Imperial Navy, known as the Kaiserliche Marine, was the naval force of the German Empire from 1871 to 1918. It was established to protect Germany's growing interests overseas and to compete with other major naval powers, particularly Great Britain. The navy expanded significantly under the leadership of Kaiser Wilhelm II, focusing on battleships and submarines. During World War I, the German Imperial Navy played a crucial role in naval warfare, engaging in significant battles such as the Battle of Jutland. However, after the war, the navy was largely dismantled under the terms of the Treaty of Versailles, leading to a significant reduction in its size and capabilities.