1871–1878

The Kulturkampf in Germany

After German unification, Chancellor Otto von Bismarck launched a campaign against Catholic Church influence. He himself called it the "Kulturkampf" ("culture struggle").

The "May Laws" restricted clerical rights and church education. They also put the appointment of priests under state control. The Jesuits were expelled from the country.

Determined Catholic resistance led to a gradual softening and eventual winding-down of the campaign.