Final answer:
Bismarck pursued colonial policies to secure raw materials and markets for Germany's industrial capitalism, to enhance national prestige, and to assert Germany's rising power, influenced by economic, political, and psychological motives.
Step-by-step explanation:
Why did Bismarck pursue colonial policies in 1884-5? Otto von Bismarck, initially averse to the concept of empire building, saw the need for Germany to acquire colonies by the 1880s. Influenced by a combination of economics, politics, and psychological factors, Bismarck recognized the benefits of securing overseas territories. Economically, the growth of industrial capitalism in Germany created a demand for access to raw materials and new markets for finished goods. Politically, colonial possessions were a means to enhance national prestige and assert Germany's position as a rising power among established European empires. Psychologically, nationalism and the desire for international recognition also played a role in pursuing these colonial policies.
During the Berlin Conference of 1884-1885, European powers met to divide Africa amongst themselves, thus setting the stage for German colonial expansion. Bismarck's efforts led to the acquisition of territories such as Togoland, German Cameroon, German South-West Africa, and German East Africa. These colonies contributed to Germany's emergence as an industrial, political, and military force, amplifying its role on the international stage and exacerbating tensions with other colonial powers, thereby sowing seeds for future conflicts.