Kaiser Wilhelm II:
Some "Not So Fond" Memories

Kaiser Wilhelm II was the Emperor of Germany when World War I broke out. It is widely believed that his authoritarian policies were responsible for the war. The Kaiser was no friend of democracy, and incited countries to war against one another until the world became involved in a brutal bloody war.

Although he eventually abdicated his position and was essentially exiled, many soldiers had a distaste for his person as well as his policies.

It is not surprising that various verses sprang up
and were spread abroad about the Kaiser. Following are a couple of the humorous, yet pointed "poems" that describe feelings toward the Emperor:

Memories From World War I

KAISER BILL WENT UP THE HILL
TO TAKE A SHOT AT FRANCE -
KAISER BILL CAME DOWN THE HILL
WITH BULLETS IN HIS PANTS!

Kaiser Wilhelm II: Rationing

During and following World War I, a form of rationing, or restriction of food and materials, was put into effect. This was to free up more funds and materials for the war effort. Of course, Emperor Wilhelm II was considered by many to be the cause of the hardship, high prices and shortages resulting from the war.

Humor in the form of verse helped ease the pain a little.

Here is how one author described life during this time period:

MY MONDAYS ARE WHEATLESS,
MY TUESDAYS ARE SWEETLESS,
MY WEDNESDAYS ARE MEATLESS,
MY THURSDAYS ARE HEATLESS,
MY STOCKINGS ARE FEET-LESS,
MY TROUSERS ARE SEAT-LESS,
OH! HOW I DO HATE THE KAISER!!

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