# Year of the Three Emperors (1888)

URL: https://germany-history.com/timeline/1888-year-of-the-three-emperors
Location: Berlin
Categories: ruler-change

In 1888 Wilhelm I died in March, and his son Frederick III died of cancer after 99 days. His son Wilhelm II, aged 29, became emperor on 15 June. He wanted to rule personally.

## Why it matters
Wilhelm II's reign led Germany into World War I.

Ruler at the time: [Wilhelm II](https://germany-history.com/rulers/wilhelm-ii)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia – Year of the Three Emperors](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Year_of_the_Three_Emperors)
- [Wikipedia – Wilhelm II](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wilhelm_II)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica – Wilhelm II](https://www.britannica.com/biography/William-II-emperor-of-Germany)