Who was the commander of German surface forces in the Pacific when war broke out?

The correct choice identifies Vice Admiral Graf von Spee as the commander of German surface forces in the Pacific at the onset of World War I. He was a notable naval leader who commanded the East Asia Squadron and was known for his decisive actions during naval engagements, particularly in the Pacific theater. His leadership became crucial as tensions escalated leading to the war.

The other individuals listed were significant figures in the German naval hierarchy but had different roles or timeframes associated with their commands. Vice Admiral Dönitz was primarily known for his leadership of U-Boat operations in World War II, while Admiral Hipper commanded naval units during the same conflict but did not serve in the Pacific at the outbreak of the war. General Erich Raeder was the head of the Kriegsmarine during World War II but was not involved in the surface forces during the earlier conflict. Thus, Graf von Spee distinctly stands out as the leader relevant to the question regarding German surface forces in the Pacific during the outbreak of World War I.