In the spring of 1878 an attempt was made on the life of the Emperor; a young man, named Hobel, a shoemaker's apprentice, shot at him in the streets of Berlin, fortunately without result.

The attempt naturally created intense indignation throughout the country.

This was increased when it became known that he had been to some extent connected with the Socialist party, and it seemed as though the motives of the crime were supplied by the violent speeches made at Socialist gatherings.

Bismarck had long regarded the growth of Socialism with concern.

He determined to use this opportunity to crush it.