Imperial Germany refers to the period of German history from 1871 to 1918, when the country was unified under the leadership of the German Empire. This era began after the Franco-Prussian War, which resulted in the unification of various German states into a single nation-state, with Kaiser Wilhelm I as its first emperor. The empire was characterized by rapid industrialization, military expansion, and a growing sense of nationalism. During this time, Germany became a major European power, competing with nations like Britain and France. The empire's political structure was a mix of monarchy and parliamentary elements, with significant influence from the Prussian military. The period ended with Germany's defeat in World War I, leading to the abdication of the Kaiser and the establishment of the Weimar Republic.