The Wilhelm II counterfactual produces a disagreement over which threat Britain would prioritize. The case for accommodation with Germany emphasizes Russia's pressure toward India and France's alliance with Russia. Without a German naval challenge, cooperation with Germany could supply Britain with a powerful continental partner, while the Royal Navy supplied maritime strength. The opposing argument emphasizes Britain's resistance to any power dominating Europe, especially one threatening the Low Countries and northern France. Even a Germany without a large fleet could become a naval threat after establishing continental predominance. The debate distinguishes an immediate threat to India from a longer-term threat to the home islands. British neutrality remains a proposed possibility, with the panel divided over whether Germany's wider ambitions would permit it.
Notable Point · 2:32:18-2:37:22
Russia, India, and Britain's choice of European partners
The panel debates whether a Germany without a naval race could attract British neutrality despite concerns about the European balance of power.