Meaning: The quote you provided is from Sir Edward Grey, a British statesman who served as the Foreign Secretary from 1905 to 1916. This quote reflects Grey's viewpoint on a proposal from Germany, which he believed would have significant implications for France's territorial integrity and geopolitical status.

In the quote, Grey expresses the material perspective that the proposal is unacceptable because it could lead to France being so crushed that it would lose its position as a Great Power and become subordinate to German policy. This statement is significant in the context of the pre-World War I geopolitical landscape, where the balance of power and territorial control in Europe was a central concern for major European powers.

To fully understand the context and significance of this quote, it is necessary to delve into the historical and political background of the period. The early 20th century was marked by intense rivalries and alliances among European states, particularly the major powers such as Germany, France, and Britain. These dynamics were further complicated by the emergence of militarism, nationalism, and imperial aspirations, which created a volatile and precarious international environment.

At the heart of Grey's statement is the concern over the potential consequences of a proposal that could significantly weaken France and alter the power dynamics in Europe. Grey's assessment reflects the realpolitik of the time, where states sought to secure and expand their territorial and strategic interests to maintain their status as Great Powers. The fear of one state gaining dominance over others and reshaping the European balance of power was a driving force behind diplomatic maneuvers and military alliances.

The reference to France losing her position as a Great Power and becoming subordinate to German policy speaks to the broader strategic calculations and anxieties prevalent among European powers. The prospect of a dominant Germany exerting control over a weakened France was a scenario that raised alarm bells in diplomatic circles, as it threatened to upend the established order and potentially trigger a wider conflict.

Grey's assessment of the proposal reflects the complex web of alliances, rivalries, and power struggles that characterized European politics in the lead-up to World War I. The delicate balance of power, particularly between Germany and France, was a central concern for policymakers, and any move that threatened to disrupt this balance was met with apprehension and resistance.

In conclusion, Sir Edward Grey's quote encapsulates the geopolitical tensions and calculations that defined the pre-World War I era. It underscores the high stakes involved in diplomatic negotiations and the intense competition among European powers to safeguard their interests and maintain their positions as Great Powers. The quote serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate interplay of power, territory, and national interests that shaped the trajectory of European politics in the early 20th century.