The role of Bethmann-Holloweg in the July Crisis

Naturally, there are three main points offered, when analyzing the role of Bethmann-Holloweg in the July Crisis. One of them, the sympathetic viewpoint, describes the German Imperial Chancellor as a victim of circumstance, rather weak, but totally guilt-free. The more critical viewpoint assigns him the characteristics of an aggressive expansionist and finally the neutral point balances out the two. It claims that Holloweg lost control, and desired no more than a limited war. Nonetheless, it …

…he could have also chosen different people to consult, however in my opinion he cannot be completely blamed. It's fair to say that he has lost control and gave in, but I think it's a bit far-fetching to say that these were his plans initially and that he was an aggressive expansionist. Even though he probably carries more responsibility than the Kaiser, it is the General staff and military who are to blame as well.