October 16, 1898 // Kostantiniyye, Ottoman Empire
The death of the Iron Chancellor left all Germans with a sense of loss.
Bismarck was subsequently given a full state funeral, with the Kaiser ordering a full week of mourning. Unlike the original history, with his relationship with my father mended, he was given a goodbye befitting his status and achievements.
But despite his death the living must move on. My father started his state visit today by arriving at Constantinople, the Queen of Cities. At my insistence I asked my father to bring me with him, curious about the 19th century Ottoman Empire.
After arriving by yacht we were given a welcome befitting the name of the Kaiser. After the welcome we headed to Topkapi Palace with a 2nd round of processions. Being considerate of my age I was given a tour while my father met with the Sultan.
Modern Germany has many Turkish immigrants, so I'm not all too unfamiliar with Turkish culture. Despite this I've never visited Istanbul, much less Topkapi palace, so the tour was very fun and interesting for me. The only state palace I've been to was Berlin Palace, during my first time I was at awe of its splendor. Despite this, Topkapi Palace boasts a different majesty. It befits being the home of the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, the once hegemon of the Mediterranean.
While continuing the tour of the grounds I meet an unexpected guest.
"Greetings your highness, my humble name is Theodor Herzl."
"Hello, this is Joachim von Preußen."
With this a new relationship was formed, between the 6th Prince of Germany and Theodor Herzl, the father of Zionism.
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Theodor Herzl, I don't know much about him except for the fact that he's known in modern times as the father of Zionism. Considering my location within the palace and his slightly nervous expression our meeting doesn't seem to be a mere coincidence.
"Mr. Herzl, I didn't expect to meet such a respected figure during my visit here."
"May I ask your highness how you know about me?"
"I've always been interested in history and the current affairs, I heard that Mr. Herzl was one of the leading figures in the Zionist movement."
With my remarks, Mr. Herzl eyes twinkle.
"I'm honored that such an esteemed person such as the prince knows about me and our movement."
"You're welcome, would you like to take a walk with me?"
"I'd be honored your highness."
After the brief exchange Mr. Herzl and I continued walking, with the guide leading the way. During our conversations he explained to me what the Zionist movement is all about, as well as its aims.
"A Jewish homeland huh. Mr. Herzl there are many Jews in Germany, but why would they need to leave for a foreign land."
"Your highness this may be rude but, the Jewish people have never truly had a home of their own since ancient times. For more than two millennia the Jewish people have lived from one place to another, never able to settle in one place due to the stigma of simply being a Jew. Zionism wishes to rectify this situation by creating our own nation state."
Mr. Herzl continues his explanation talking about the general discrimination of Jews throughout history until today, and the pitiful status of his people.
I'm not against Zionism but I only plan to support it if it leads to tangible benefits for Germany. Its a bit cold-hearted but if I can filter out the German-Jews from the Jews living in Germany through this, it may be worthwhile to give them moderate help.
We continue conversing and when I came out positively regarding his ideas he became excited. When he mentioned that Edmond de Rothschild was his biggest benefactor, I became even more interested. Needless to say the Rothschilds influence and wealth are incredibly high, to the extent that in modern times there are all sorts of conspiracy theories running around that their family controls the world in the dark.
With this my relationship with Theodor Hertzl was sealed. Wanting to commemorate today I asked to have a picture taken with him, and he gladly agreed.
Starting with my visit to Bismarck, I decided to always bring a camera with me. So as to document my adventures for future Wikipedia articles.
With this I have two photos with historical giants.