Helgoland was a welcome gain for Wilhelm II after Bismarck's removal. In this assessment, Bismarck was no longer at the peak of his influence, yet remained more capable than the available successors. Acquiring the island helped compensate the new regime for the political disruption and gave the Kaiser a visible diplomatic success. British retention removes that easy trophy and leaves German leaders with a persistent reminder of an unfinished objective.
Notable Point · 30:54-32:06
Bismarck's dismissal raises the value of a concession
See why an island transfer could help a new Kaiser claim a diplomatic success after removing Bismarck.